Daily Inspiration: Meet Kate Ward

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Ward.

Hi Kate, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
ORIJINAL was born from an appreciation of unique textiles. I was always looking for that one piece that would pull my neutral wardrobe together, a signature statement that set me apart from the masses. Having owned several kilim rugs & used them for their versatility throughout my home, I kept thinking how perfect it would be if I could use them in my wardrobe as well. Voila!

Over the past several years, the brand has grown and changed, but our core values have remained the same – a commitment to craftsmanship, an appreciation for the Turkish culture that continues to inspire, a love of travel, and above all else; a celebration of the colors and textures that make each and every kilim textile one-of-a-kind.

The weaver’s personal touch is felt in every kilim, that’s why each ORIJINAL design is entirely unique. We work closely alongside Turkish dealers to find kilims that are particularly beautiful & decades-old but often damaged, stained, or worn by time. Repurposing these textiles allows us to upcycle items that would otherwise be devalued based on their condition instead of being adored for their inherent beauty.

Once the rug reaches our studio in NC, each piece is affectionately crafted by our team of makers from around the world, making ORIJINAL a truly global effort.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Certainly not! There has been a tremendous amount of learning and re-learning involved in trying to figure out exactly how to piece things together. How to piece actual things (kilims/leather/etc.) together. Particularly with such fragile textiles.

There have been many missteps and unravels (literally), but through trial and error, we’ve got it down pat! We know what works and what doesn’t, which sewing settings work and which do not, and what needs to be hand-stitched or riveted. An idea can carry you a long way!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We specialize in finding old textiles and reincarnating them into wearable treasures. There is such artistry and history that goes into the rugs, it’s fun to spread that beauty around on heads and around wrists!

I try to let my mind wander and imagine what a particular design in a kilim could turn into- how a line of fertility symbols would look draped around someone’s neck, for instance. It’s funny because it’s almost like you have a secret code when you’re wearing a piece.

People see the symbols in the rugs as random designs and patterns, but they are all symbolic and carry meaning. To me, that is one of the most special parts of the business.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I have three small children who are with me most of the time! All work and creating happen in between parenting responsibilities and during nap times. My studio is in my back yard and that’s where it all takes shape… often at 9 pm.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.orijinal.design
• Instagram:@orijinal.design