Woven with Care: The Appletons Story

If you’ve ever stitched with Appletons wool, you’re part of a story that’s been nearly two centuries in the making. Since 1835, our tapestry and crewel wool has woven its way through British history. From royal garments and historic restorations to family projects stitched at kitchen tables around the world. 

But Appletons isn’t just a name on a label. We’re a small, passionate team dedicated to keeping the art of British wool manufacturing alive, and to supporting the wholesalers, retailers, and makers who share our love for quality craftsmanship. 

From Mill to Modern Maker 

It all started in 1835, when Thomas Appleton opened a workshop in Haslemere, making worsted lace and military braid. Over time, the business evolved, moving to Chiswick and focusing on tapestry and crewel wool – the products that made Appletons famous. 

In 2013, Di Cawdron took ownership and relocated the business to Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire, where tradition and modern craftsmanship sit side by side. Our processes are updated, but the heart of Appletons remains in every carefully made skein. 

Threads That Bind Us – Our Values

At Appletons, we’ve always believed our wool carries more than colour, it carries connection. 

Heritage of Excellence
For nearly 200 years, we’ve stayed true to the same principles that shaped our beginnings: quality, craftsmanship, and care. Every hank of Appletons wool reflects that history and the generations of makers who came before us. 

British Craftsmanship & Sourcing
We’re proudly British from sheep to needle. All our wool comes from Yorkshire, and we work with long-standing UK partners – farmers, spinners, and dyers – some of whom we’ve collaborated with for over 80 years.  

Sustainability & Responsibility
We’re conscious of our footprint and committed to responsible production, using natural, sustainable wool, keeping our supply chain local, and using recyclable packaging. It’s part of our promise to leave the lightest mark on the planet while supporting British farming and industry. 

Creativity & Community
From the Bayeux Tapestry and the Great Tapestry of Scotland to the cushions, kits, and tapestries you create at home, we love seeing how Appletons wool brings creativity to life. We see ourselves as part of your story, whether you’re a seasoned wholesaler supplying craft enthusiasts or a maker discovering needlework for the first time. 

Our Commitment to You, Our Partners

Appletons has thrived for generations thanks to relationships built on trust. We’re proud to work with an incredible network of wholesalers and retailers, many of whom have been with us for decades, and we see them as an extension of the Appletons family. 

Your success is our success, and we’re here to support you with consistent quality, reliable supply, and an ever-growing community of makers who love and trust our brand. 

As we continue to grow, we’re also investing more in how we share our story. Reaching new audiences, celebrating the artistry of wool, and helping you inspire your customers through the beauty of handcrafting. 

So, What’s Next?

Appletons has always been about continuity, the quiet strength of a craft passed from hand to hand, generation to generation. But it’s also about evolution. 

As we look to the future, we’re committed to: 

• Expanding our range of colours and creative kits. 
• Investing in new machinery to keep up with growing demand. 
• Strengthening our sustainability commitments. 
• Supporting our retail and wholesale partners with renewed energy and focus. 

The world may have changed since Thomas Appleton’s day, but our purpose hasn’t. We’re still here to bring people together through the timeless art of needlework, one beautiful skein at a time. 

So, whether you’re stocking our wool, selling our kits, or stitching something special yourself, together we’re keeping a proud British tradition alive.