Norwegian wool blankets and cushions
Norwegian wool, 100% Norwegian production and close collaboration with leading Scandinavian designers and textile artists have made Røros Tweed blankets one of the most respected purely Norwegian quality products.
Røros Tweed is located 600 metres above sea level in Røros, Norway. An unlikely location for a textile factory, many might think – but there is a story behind it. Peder Hiort, director of the Røros copper works in the 18th century, left his entire fortune to the poor of Røros. Hiort's will has been described as one of the wisest donations in the Nordic countries.
Under the will, wool and linen were to be bought and distributed to the poor. They were to spin, knit and weave them into socks, padding and warm clothing – textiles that were essential in Røros's cold mountain climate. The products were collected and the work was paid for. Every year around Midsummer (Sankthans), these textiles were given to people in need along with other gifts. Many of those who had first been paid for the work received the products back as gifts.
The founding of Røros Tweed continued the craft activities of the Hiort Foundation. It began with a weaving course in 1938/39. Textiles like those the Hiort Foundation had produced for 150 years were woven in private homes, and a sales centre was set up. Investments were made in machinery, and production gradually shifted to the factory. Larger premises were needed, and a new factory was completed in 1952.
Over the years, Røros Tweed has experimented with Norwegian wool and developed high-quality textile products and designs. The factory has worked with leading Norwegian textile artists for many years. Røros Tweed is known for its curtains, upholstery fabrics, rugs and tweed.
Today, Røros Tweed has reorganised its production to meet the challenges of the modern textile industry. The factory now focuses on high-quality blankets made of 100% pure new wool, with designs inspired by the aesthetic and cultural heritage of Røros – and the fascinating high-mountain landscape.
