1720
Stephen Walters & Sons can trace its origins to Benjamin Walters, who was the first member of the Walters family to become a Master Weaver based in Spitalfields, London. His son, Joseph I also went on to become a Master Weaver of the Worshipful Company of Weavers.
1772
Joseph and his wife moved to 25 Wilkes Street, Spitalfields. Here, with his father and younger brother George, they produced draw loom fabrics for dresses. This is considered as the first Stephen Walters site.
1770s
In 1773, the first Spitalfields Act introduced regulations on wages, increases on taxes and restrictions on apprentices for the silk industry. This resulted in weavers and yarn spinners moving out of London.
Early 1800s
The company expanded moving to Suffolk and Essex, benefiting from the weaving skills that were available due to the decline of the wool industry in these areas. It was here that power looms and new Jacquard technology were introduced.
1900
The factory at Sudbury Silk Mills was purchased, and weaving operations were consolidated there. The building, though much extended, remains the company’s headquarters to this day.
Mid 1900s
The company continued to prosper, weaving a wide variety of fabrics including Spunella for ladies’ dresses, facing fabrics for tuxedos and Repp stripes for neckwear. During the second world war the looms were recommissioned to weave silk for parachutes.
1952
Stephen Walters was approached for a special royal commission, to weave the fabric for the lining of Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation robe.
1964
After joining the business as the ninth generation, David Walters pioneered the next step by investing in new technology and introducing rapier jacquard looms.
1981
Stephen Walters wove the silk for Lady Diana Spencer’s wedding dress, famously designed by the Emanuels.
Late 1980s
The company continued to lead the way, switching from traditional punch card methods to new computer technology. Working hand in hand with software providers they developed a bespoke program, which enabled digital design archiving.
2020
Stephen Walters celebrated its 300th anniversary, making it the oldest silk weaving company in Great Britain
2023
The company became the first UK Textile Manufacturer to be awarded Oeko-Tex STeP accreditation, which certifies the manufacturing process for environmentally friendly and socially responsible production facilities.
2025
Stephen Walters was honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. It is the most prestigious business award in the UK and was awarded for their responsible manufacturing practices.
Today
The company is one of the leading producers of fabrics for the luxury fashion industry, supplying some of the world’s most prestigious brands.