Handweaving custom textiles
for over 30 years

Kelly Marshall at work weaving in studio

Beginnings

I was first introduced to weaving at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota in 1979 while studying to be a dental hygienist. Following my passion for textiles, I quit my 10-year dental hygiene career and opened Custom Woven Interiors in 1992. Armed with a design degree and a year long study of traditional techniques in Sweden, I dove into my custom weaving business.

I jumped into my first big order, 26 rugs for a new build lake home in Okoboji, IA. Working with designer Renèe LeJeune-Hallberg, I developed the patterns by referencing the myriad of fabrics used throughout the home, shooting for the summer lake home feel to shine through in her rugs, one even portraying a sailboat motif. (In 2020 Reneé and I got to revisit that project with nine new rugs!)

Quickly, I fell in love with the Scandinavian Rep weave technique for its versatility, with patterning and product variety, going from upholstery, to table runners to rugs, all on the same loom set up. I work with cotton, linen, and polyester fibers for their vibrant color, sheen and durability.

Beginnings

I was first introduced to weaving at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota in 1979 while studying to be a dental hygienist. Following my passion for textiles, I quit my 10-year dental hygiene career and opened Custom Woven Interiors in 1992. Armed with a design degree and a year long study of traditional techniques in Sweden, I dove into my custom weaving business.

I jumped into my first big order, 26 rugs for a new build lake home in Okoboji, IA. Working with designer Renèe LeJeune-Hallberg, I developed the patterns by referencing the myriad of fabrics used throughout the home, shooting for the summer lake home feel to shine through in her rugs, one even portraying a sailboat motif. (In 2020 Reneé and I got to revisit that project with nine new rugs!)

Quickly, I fell in love with the Scandinavian Rep weave technique for its versatility, with patterning and product variety, going from upholstery, to table runners to rugs, all on the same loom set up. I work with cotton, linen, and polyester fibers for their vibrant color, sheen and durability.

Pattern Inspiration

Often influenced by cultural icons, my patterns reflect— Asian stitching, Native beadwork, ancient textiles, and Prairie style, architectural elements like windows and masonry. In 2012, I worked on a commission with Mayo clinics to create textile wall-hangings for an area called the Cultural Corridor. These six weavings were created to represent the cultural heritage of the clinics’ clientele, including Mayan/Latin, African, Scandinavian, Hmong, and Native American. I enjoy working with architects, designers and art consultants, introducing my textiles as a way to bring familiarity, warmth and comfort to sometimes cold and sterile corporate or hospital environments.

Studio

 
My first studio, a mere 10 x 10’ space with one loom, has now evolved to a spacious sunlit studio in the historic Northrup King building, located in the NE Minneapolis Arts District. There, you’ll find 4 AVL dobby looms and my first loom, a 54” Glimåkra, woven over 6800 yards of textiles on it! I employ assistants who help me with loom set-up and weaving, and shop manager Neva Conway, with me since 1996, is invaluable in her expertise in weaving and equipment management.

Out & Around

My passion for weaving is also shared with interns, emerging artists and through teaching workshops at guilds and art centers across the country. In 2012, I self-published Custom Woven Interiors, bringing color and design home with Rep weave. The beautifully photographed book features chapters on designing and color, which intrigues all readers, and also contains 18 weaving projects for the avid weaver to explore.

I show my work in fine craft shows and exhibits nationally, and I feel fortunate to have been featured in numerous architectural, weaving, and home interior publications, and TV programs such as Modern Masters, Handcrafted America, and MN Original

I welcome you to visit me in my studio and experience the weaving process.

How we weave. 

Own a Kelly Marshall Original

We love working with customers on unique, one-of-a-kind creations.

If you have any questions or you’re ready to get started, contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.