Cranston Readying Archives for Use

1,300 Designs Now Digitized

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 6/25/2007 12:00:00 AM

New York —

Since 1824, The Cranston Print Works has provided printed decorative fabric for American homes. Now the full archives are being digitized — 1,300 designs to date — and being offered for a range of merchandise through Cranston agent MHS Licensing, based in Minnetonka, Minn.

MHS, which handles more than a dozen artists, is already in negotiations with manufacturers of hardlines including tablewares and greeting cards. MHS agent Mark Fisher told HTT that Cranston will project well into such soft home areas as kitchen textiles and table linens.

The designs range from richly colored, elaborate floral patterns to traditional Americana looks that appeal to casual lifestyle decorating.