Our Story

millshop timeline / also in 300+10 book

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.

silk weaving heritage
300+10 book page 53

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.

300 + 10 book page 45
silk weaving heritage

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.

300+10 book page 57

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.

300 + 10 book page 41

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.

Sustainability

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.