Ever wondered who supplies the world’s most luxurious tweeds, performance-driven technical textiles, or sustainable fabrics that shape global fashion and design? What does it take to become a leading fabric manufacturer with centuries of heritage, and who are the names behind the materials trusted by top designers and industries alike?
This article delves into the United Kingdom’s most distinguished fabric producers—companies renowned for their craftsmanship, innovation, and unwavering quality. From historic mills in Yorkshire specializing in premium wool and tweed, to innovative factories producing high-tech materials for aerospace and protective gear, we explore a mix of time-honored traditions and cutting-edge textile solutions. These manufacturers not only serve high-fashion houses and interior designers but also supply sectors such as automotive, military, and healthcare with precision-engineered fabrics. Sustainability, bespoke production, and vertical integration are hallmarks of these industry leaders, ensuring both ecological accountability and exceptional performance.
In the following sections, we count down the top 10 fabric suppliers in the UK—uncovering their unique strengths, specializations, and why they stand out in a competitive global market; read on to discover which companies made the list and how their fabrics can inspire your next project.
List of the Top 10 Fabric Manufacturers and Suppliers in the USA
| Brand | Headquarters | Main Products/Services |
|---|---|---|
| Make it British Ltd | London, United Kingdom | UK manufacturer directory, consulting, educational resources |
| Camira Fabrics | Huddersfield, United Kingdom | Contract upholstery, acoustic fabrics, transportation textiles |
| AW Hainsworth & Sons Ltd | West Yorkshire, United Kingdom | Premium woollen fabrics, military textiles, interior fabrics |
| Marton Mills Co Ltd | West Yorkshire, United Kingdom | Woven fabrics, schoolwear, Highland wear, military uniforms |
| The House Directory | United Kingdom | Design directory, sourcing service, industry information |
| Heathcoat Fabrics | Devon, United Kingdom | Technical textiles, aerospace fabrics, protective materials |
| John England | Northern Ireland, United Kingdom | Linen fabrics, theatrical linens, custom textile design |
| Huddersfield Textiles Ltd | Huddersfield, United Kingdom | Worsted suit cloth, luxury fabrics, tailoring materials |
| Abraham Moon & Sons Ltd | Yorkshire, United Kingdom | Woollen cloth, apparel fabrics, interior textiles |
| British Millerain Co Ltd | Greater Manchester, United Kingdom | Waxed cotton, technical textiles, outdoor fabrics |
1. Make it British Ltd
Introduction:
Make it British operates as a pivotal consultancy and directory platform connecting brands with reputable UK fabric manufacturers and suppliers. Founded by Kate Hills, an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in fashion and textiles, the company specializes in supporting businesses seeking British-made fabric production, factory sourcing, and custom manufacturing solutions. Its core mission is to revitalize UK manufacturing by providing expert guidance, educational resources, and direct access to a curated network of British fabric producers, from woven textile mills to knitwear specialists and custom printing services.
As a trusted intermediary for fabric sourcing and manufacturing partnerships, Make it British offers tailored matchmaking services that help brands identify ideal UK-based fabric suppliers for both standard and customized textile production. The company leverages deep industry knowledge to assist clients in navigating the complexities of domestic manufacturing, ensuring quality control, ethical production standards, and supply chain transparency. For businesses committed to producing locally or developing British-made fabric collections, Make it British provides essential resources including manufacturing directories, educational programs, and one-on-one consulting services focused on sustainable UK textile production.
Established: 2011
Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- UK manufacturer directory for fabrics, yarns, and textile production
- Consulting and matchmaking services for fabric sourcing and manufacturing
- Educational resources and courses on British manufacturing processes
- Podcast and content platform featuring UK fabric manufacturers and brands
- Support for custom textile development and private label manufacturing
Business Type: Manufacturing Directory · Consulting Service · Educational Resource
2. Camira Fabrics
Introduction:
Camira operates as a leading manufacturer and global supplier of premium contract fabrics for commercial interiors and transportation applications. With decades of experience in textile innovation, the company specializes in creating high-performance fabrics that combine aesthetic appeal with exceptional durability and sustainability. Its core expertise spans across multiple market sectors including corporate offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, hospitality venues, and mass transit systems, delivering textile solutions that meet rigorous performance requirements while maintaining environmental responsibility.
As a vertically integrated fabric producer, Camira controls the entire manufacturing process from fiber selection to finished product, ensuring consistent quality and comprehensive traceability. The company leverages advanced weaving and knitting technologies to develop innovative textiles featuring acoustic properties, flame retardancy, and enhanced sustainability credentials. For businesses seeking reliable contract fabric solutions with proven performance characteristics, Camira provides extensive technical support, custom development capabilities, and global supply chain management through its manufacturing facilities in the UK and Lithuania.
Established: 1974
Headquarters: Huddersfield, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Contract upholstery fabrics for commercial and healthcare interiors
- Acoustic panel fabrics with sound-absorbing properties
- Transportation fabrics for mass passenger vehicles
- Hospitality textiles for hotel and restaurant applications
- Custom fabric development and technical consulting services
Business Type: Fabric Manufacturer · Global Textile Supplier · Contract Interiors Specialist
3. AW Hainsworth & Sons Ltd
Introduction:
Hainsworth operates as one of Britain's most iconic and historic fabric manufacturers, specializing in premium woollen textiles since 1783. As a truly vertical woollen mill and one of the last remaining in Britain, the company maintains complete control over the entire production process from raw fibre to finished cloth at their West Yorkshire facility. With a rich heritage spanning over two centuries, Hainsworth fabrics have been present at key moments in Britain's history and continue to be sought after for their exceptional quality, consistency, and authentic British provenance.
The company leverages its traditional craftsmanship combined with continuous innovation to produce signature fabrics that offer a uniquely luxurious experience. Hainsworth's commitment to excellence has established them as the preferred choice for leading designers, tailors, and garment manufacturers across diverse industries including fashion, military, interiors, and ceremonial wear. Their vertically integrated manufacturing approach not only ensures quality control but also enables significant carbon footprint reduction, reflecting their dedication to sustainable production practices and environmental responsibility.
Established: 1783
Headquarters: Spring Valley Mills, Stanningley, Pudsey, West Yorkshire LS28 6DW, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Premium woollen fabrics for fashion and apparel applications
- Military and ceremonial parade wear textiles
- Interior fabrics for upholstery and decorative purposes
- Costume and re-enactment specialist fabrics
- Bespoke fabric development and custom collaborations
Business Type: Vertical Woollen Mill · Historic Manufacturer · British Textile Producer
4. Marton Mills Co Ltd
Introduction:
Marton Mills operates as a premier British fabric manufacturer with a rich heritage dating back to 1931, specializing in high-quality woven textiles produced at their West Yorkshire facility. As a family-owned and managed textile mill, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create premium fabrics for diverse applications including fashion, schoolwear, Highland wear, military uniforms, and interior furnishings. Their vertically integrated production process ensures complete quality control from yarn selection to finished fabric, maintaining the renowned standards of Yorkshire textile manufacturing.
The mill offers exceptional versatility in production capabilities, accommodating everything from small bespoke runs to large-scale orders across more than 1,000 product lines. Marton Mills has invested significantly in state-of-the-art Dornier looms and finishing technologies, allowing them to produce an extensive range of pure wool fabrics including tweeds, meltons, and specialized blends. With a commitment to British manufacturing excellence, the company provides reliable stock-supported fabrics with no minimum order requirements, backed by expert design services and technical support for custom developments.
Established: 1931
Headquarters: Pool Mills, Pool in Wharfedale, Otley, West Yorkshire LS21 1TA, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Premium woven fabrics for fashion and apparel applications
- Specialist schoolwear and corporate uniform textiles
- Traditional Highland wear fabrics including tartans
- Military and ceremonial uniform fabrics
- Interior furnishing and upholstery textiles
Business Type: Vertical Textile Mill · Family-Owned Manufacturer · British Woven Fabric Producer
5. The House Directory
Introduction:
The House Directory operates as the UK's leading online directory and essential resource for interior and garden design professionals and enthusiasts. Originally established from the legacy of the renowned "House & Garden Book of Essential Addresses," it serves as a comprehensive digital sourcebook connecting users with thousands of vetted suppliers, artisans, and specialists.
The platform combines meticulous curation with user-friendly functionality, providing an indispensable tool for sourcing products, services, and inspiration for both trade and private clients. With a commitment to excellence and longevity in design, The House Directory offers more than just listings; it provides a curated community of high-quality vendors, expert advice, and timely industry insights. Its foundation built on decades of editorial and design expertise ensures that every listed company meets rigorous standards of quality and reliability, making it the first port of call for anyone undertaking interior or garden design projects in the UK.
Established: 2001 (as House & Garden Addresses); became independent in 2008
Headquarters: United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Comprehensive directory listings for interior and garden design companies
- Expert sourcing service for products and services across all design sectors
- Monthly newsletter featuring industry news, events, and exclusive information
- Informative blog with design inspiration, tips, and project ideas
- Industry event calendar showcasing key trade shows, workshops, and fairs
- "Ask the Experts" service for personalized design and sourcing advice
Business Type: Online Directory · Curated Design Resource · Trade & Consumer Information Service
6. Heathcoat Fabrics
Introduction:
Heathcoat Fabrics is a market-leading British manufacturer of knitted and woven technical textiles with over 200 years of heritage. Specializing in engineered fabrics for extreme performance applications, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation to create world-class textile solutions for diverse industrial sectors. As a vertically integrated manufacturer, Heathcoat controls the entire production process from yarn processing to specialist finishing, ensuring unparalleled quality and performance in every fabric.
The company operates with a customer-focused approach, solving complex challenges and converting opportunities into value for each individual client. Heathcoat's ethos is built on pinpointing customer needs to the finest detail, offering both off-the-shelf and completely bespoke textile solutions. With state-of-the-art facilities in Devon and extensive research and development capabilities, Heathcoat Fabrics continues to redefine technical textiles while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Established: 1816 (Over 200 years of operation)
Headquarters: Westexe, Tiverton EX16 5LL, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Advanced engineered textiles for aerospace and defense applications
- Specialist fabrics for automotive and synchronous belt protection
- Technical textiles for composites and CBRN protection
- Parachute fabrics for space, military and leisure users
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and industrial protective fabrics
- 3D spacer textiles and innovative moisture-wicking fabrics
- Fine English tulle and nursery fabric solutions
- Custom textile development and manufacturing services
Business Type: Technical Textile Manufacturer · Engineered Fabric Specialist · Vertical Textile Producer
7. John England
Introduction:
John England is a renowned British textile company specializing in linen and linen blend fabrics with over 55 years of heritage in the industry. Operating as part of The Neilly Group, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design to produce high-quality fabrics for fashion, apparel, and home interiors worldwide. With an in-house weaving factory featuring both Jacquard and plain looms up to 3 metres wide, John England offers unique, trend-setting designs with the ability to create completely bespoke fabrics for special commissions.
The company's strength lies in its ability to offer quality on-trend fabrics from stock at competitive prices with reasonable minimum order levels and personalized service. With an in-house laundry for wash finishing fabrics using local pure soft waters, John England ensures superior quality control throughout the production process. The company has also developed a specialized theatrical linens division, supplying costume designers with affordable yet unique fabrics for movie, television, and theatre productions.
Established: 1969 (Over 55 years of operation)
Headquarters: Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Linen and linen blend fabrics for fashion and apparel
- Home interior textiles and decorative fabrics
- Theatrical linens for film, TV, and theatre productions
- Custom fabric design and special commissions
- In-house dyeing services for fabrics and yarns
- Wash finishing and fabric treatment services
- Stock fabric rolls available for immediate purchase
- Jacquard woven unique designs and patterns
Business Type: Textile Manufacturer · Linen Specialist · Fabric Wholesaler · Custom Textile Design
8. Huddersfield Textiles Ltd
Introduction:
Huddersfield Textiles Ltd is a prestigious British cloth merchant and manufacturer specializing in premium English worsted suit cloth with a heritage dating back to 1869. Operating from the historic textile heartland of West Yorkshire, the company represents the pinnacle of English craftsmanship in fine suiting fabrics. Renowned for utilizing the region's uniquely soft water - celebrated for its 'magical properties' in wool washing - Huddersfield Textiles produces luxuriously crafted cloth collections from the finest raw materials with scrupulous attention to detail.
The company serves as a worldwide gateway to hundreds of years of English cloth-making tradition, offering genuine English cut length cloths through both wholesale and direct channels. Their collections include premium ranges such as VV Legends Collection (S130s), VV150s Collection, and specialty gabardines, all designed and produced to the most exacting standards to encapsulate individualism and superior drape characteristics that have made Huddersfield cloth the choice of kings and princes throughout history.
Established: 1869
Headquarters: The Old Dye Works, Birkhouse Lane, Paddock, Huddersfield, UK, HD1 4SF, UK
Main Products/Services:
- Premium English worsted suit cloth and suiting fabrics
- Luxury cloth bunches for tailors and clothiers
- Specialty collections including VV Legends and VV150s ranges
- Gabardine and technical suiting fabrics
- Wholesale fabric distribution worldwide
- Cut-length cloth sales for bespoke tailoring
- Cloth design and development services
- Traditional English cloth manufacturing
Business Type: Cloth Merchant · Textile Manufacturer · Wholesale Distributor · British Suit Cloth Specialist
9. Abraham Moon & Sons Ltd
Introduction:
Abraham Moon & Sons Ltd is a prestigious British textile manufacturer with over 185 years of heritage in producing premium woollen cloth for both apparel and interior applications. Founded in 1837, the company represents one of the last remaining vertical mills in the UK, maintaining complete control over every stage of the production process from raw material to finished fabric at their single Yorkshire site. Renowned for their unrivalled quality and character, Moon's fabrics combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design excellence.
The company specializes in creating distinctive cloth collections that showcase the best of British textile manufacturing, serving some of the world's biggest fashion houses and interior designers. With a deep commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices and advocacy for wool's natural benefits, Abraham Moon continues to celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of the British textile industry while producing fabrics of exceptional quality and durability.
Established: 1837 (Over 185 years of operation)
Headquarters: Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Premium woollen cloth for apparel and fashion applications
- High-quality interior and upholstery fabrics
- Custom textile manufacturing and design services
- British-made vertical mill production capabilities
- Specialty woolen fabrics with traditional craftsmanship
- Retail fabric collections and wholesale distribution
- Sustainable textile manufacturing solutions
- Heritage cloth designs and contemporary fabric innovations
Business Type: Vertical Textile Mill · British Cloth Manufacturer · Wool Specialist · Fabric Producer
10. British Millerain Co Ltd
Introduction:
British Millerain operates as a world-leading manufacturer of premium outerwear and technical textiles with a heritage dating back to 1880. Headquartered in Greater Manchester, England, the company has built an unparalleled reputation for its expertise in waxed cotton finishing and innovative fabric technologies. As one of the last remaining British specialists in weatherproof textiles, British Millerain combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge techniques to create performance fabrics trusted by global outdoor brands.
The company maintains its position at the forefront of the technical textiles industry through continuous innovation and investment in new product development. British Millerain's fabrics are designed to meet the most demanding requirements, from military and workwear applications to high-performance outdoor apparel. With complete vertical control over production processes, the company ensures exceptional quality in every fabric, upholding standards that have made its products the choice of professionals and adventurers worldwide for over 140 years.
Established: 1880
Headquarters: Unit 1, Park Mill, Buckley Road, Rochdale OL12 9DJ, United Kingdom
Main Products/Services:
- Premium waxed cotton fabrics for outerwear and accessories
- Technical dry finish fabrics for performance apparel
- High-specification industrial canvas and technical textiles
- Specialist fabrics for military, workwear and outdoor applications
- Custom fabric development and finishing services
- Collaborative fabric design for leading global brands
- Dead stock and discontinued fabric offerings
Business Type: Technical Textile Manufacturer · Waxed Cotton Specialist · Industrial Fabric Producer · Outerwear Fabric Innovator
Conclusion
The UK's textile industry represents a remarkable blend of heritage craftsmanship and modern innovation. From Abraham Moon's luxurious woollen cloths to British Millerain's technical waxed cottons, these manufacturers have set global standards for quality and durability. Their success lies not only in preserving traditional techniques but also in adapting to contemporary demands for sustainable and technical textiles.
While British manufacturers continue to excel in niche markets, the global textile landscape has witnessed the emergence of exceptional manufacturers from other regions. Among these, RED&BLACK stands out as a Chinese manufacturer that has successfully combined advanced production capabilities with international quality standards. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability mirrors the values that have made UK manufacturers so respected worldwide.
RED&BLACK brings together the best of both worlds: the precision and efficiency of modern Chinese manufacturing with a deep understanding of global market needs. We offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality, making premium textiles accessible to a broader range of brands and designers. As the industry continues to evolve, we proudly contribute to the global textile community while honoring the traditions of excellence established by our British counterparts.
