Huntingdon Mills debuts home line

By Andrea Lillo -- Home Textiles Today, 4/28/2003 12:00:00 AM

HUNTINGDON, QUEBEC —

Huntingdon Mills has expanded its line to include home furnishings, and that new home division was debuted at the spring market.

In operation since 1939, the mill produces high-performance fleece and flame-retardant fleece fabrics for the performance outerwear industry, as well as for apparel used by the military and by companies in highly flammable work environments. It also manufactures sliver knit fabrics that are incorporated into fashion outerwear and ready-to-wear garments; it is these fabrics that are used in its new home furnishings offerings.

"We have always been known as a niche company," said Russel David, ceo and president, who acquired the company in September. However, "we have very interesting capabilities — in design, construction and manufacturing."

Vertically integrated, the company controls the entire design and manufacturing process, and its home textiles fabrics include faux fur, plush, sculpted plush, curls — which have a wool-like appearance — dajolé and chenille-like constructions. All of the products are made with polyester, acrylic or mod-acrylic, and the company is developing a line of wool-enriched fabrics. In addition to throws, blankets and decorative pillows, the company also has a line of pet pillows and throws.

Huntingdon can work with retailers to develop exclusive designs for a variety of products. Styles can include overall patterns, children's looks, delicate sculpted or high/low plush, outdoor scenes, European and Oriental designs, as well as "faux animal fur that you would swear is the real thing," David said. Lead time for products ranges from four to six weeks.

Wholesale prices range from $15 to $30 for 50' x 60' throws and up to $75 for king-sized blankets, while 18-inch square decorative pillows range from $7 to $12.