Where stitch meets style!
A beautiful collaboration
It seems like every brand is "collabing" these days, and I’m here for it. Nothing brings me more joy than when two beloved brands marry and churn out a product that highlights their best qualities. We’ve seen some of the greatest pairings in coats, shoes, PJs, and even wallpaper.
Today, I’m excited to share a recent collaboration between two amazing brands: Tigre de Tartan + Greystone Needlepoint, making crafty designs both chic and cheeky. They were kind enough to let me interview them about their journey, and I’m thrilled to share their insights with you! Here’s a glimpse of their latest launch, where stitch meets style, and what they had to say about their path to launching this collaboration:
You recently launched a collaboration. How did this brainchild come about?
(Tigre) We have a mutual friend. She asked me if I wanted to be introduced to Shannon and I said “I'm not sure she wants me around, I'm trying to do some needlepoint stuff too and Greystone is so established!”. But, Shannon was so kind and welcoming and we found that our brands and products complement one another so well.
(Greystone) I reached out to Sunny on Instagram and bam we hit it off right away!
What inspired the design behind this collaboration?
(Tigre) We knew the Greystone brand pattern was the chef's kiss. It's a Holly Hollin design and well, Holly Hollin is just IT for beautiful pattern work. We wanted to make sure we offered items that were "needlepoint adjacent", so that meant a really luxe project bag, the leather stash trays, and of course a tote bag liner in the signature fabric.
(Greystone) When I saw the Tigre le Tartan inserts popping up on my feed by other stylish Instagram friends (shout out to Priss & Vinegar), I knew that my Greystone pattern had to be on the insert. Swoon!
Where do you see this collaboration evolving in the future?
(Tigre) Shannon was kind enough to share her canvas designing resources, so I will be coming out with some Tigre themed canvases later in the fall. The launch went really well, so I have a feeling we're going to come up with some more goodies for y'all.
(Greystone) Sky's the limit since we both have a love for needlepoint, pattern, and design.
What was the most surprising and the most challenging aspect of bringing this collaboration to life?
(Tigre) It was surprising how easily it went-? We both have a similar management style and lifestyle, so getting messages through via text, DM, email, and random calls at random hours really worked to our advantage.
(Greystone) This collaboration was pretty quick and flawless - Sunny is incredible to work with. The biggest challenge was getting it out there as fast as possible. We were both so excited!
Collaborations are all the rage right now—why do you think they’re becoming such a phenomenon?
(Tigre) I think it's the only way to go! It's so fun for the customer because it's like we see what they see. They like two brands a lot and hey, we see that and we want to make something for you! It's exciting, right?
(Greystone) Two creative minds are always better than one. Don't you think? I have always loved bouncing ideas back and forth. That is where the magic happens.
Needlepoint has made such a comeback. How do you blend vintage appeal with modern chic in your designs?
(Tigre) I am an AVID stitcher, and when I discovered needlepoint, it changed my life. I could see why generations before had done this and why- it's so relaxing and satisfying and portable. I think a lot of our customers have that sense of desire and all they needed was someone to point them in the right direction and give them a fresh take on it.
(Greystone) Needlepoint is here to stay and we are thrilled to say there are so many fresh designs out there due to emerging artists.
What are some of the current designs or products you’re most excited about creating right now?
(Greystone) We are currently opening a store in Bryn Mawr, PA and all my creative juices are going into making the shop a special place for visitors to stitch and shop. Come visit us!
Your concept is incredibly innovative. Can you tell us more about how this idea developed?
(Tigre) Thank you for that compliment! This started with the tote liner. Some day I'll do some scientific study on why people love open top totes. But it started with wanting to make something cute to secure my open top totes while traveling. Well that lead to buying a library of prints from independent female artists. And then I had all these gorgeous prints, why not put them on other lifestyle products? So that lead to needlepoint, mahjong and tabletop- all of my favorite hobbies.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs and concepts?
(Tigre) For me it's a lifetime of accumulating dreams and ideas. It recently dawned on me that a lot my style is inspired by the 80's cartoon The Care Bears. Bright happy designs, hearts, clovers, rainbows... it was a really funny discovery! But it's totally true! I also love classic designers like Lilly Pulitzer, Ralph Lauren and the Gucci that was from the past 15 years designed by Allessandro Michele- he's the one who did the fur lined loafers.
(Greystone) All over! Travel and nature mostly. For needlepoint accessories - my ideas blossom from items that I need/use in my everyday life.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a creative collaboration in the fashion industry?
(Tigre) It can be instinctual. You know a kindred spirit when you see one. And make sure it's mutually beneficial.
(Greystone) Do not be afraid to reach out. More creators are willing to work with you than you think.
How do you ensure that your products resonate with both long-time needlepoint fans and newcomers?
(Tigre) We made products you can most certainly use outside of the hobby. So far we've seen some incredible styling. The tote liner fits most open-top handbags, so you can tie it into a Goyard GM or a market tote and have this very fun layer happening in your outfit. Also the trays, I mean, they are trays- they are great for your nightstand, foyer, parlor, wherever.
(Greystone) Both Tigre and Greystone love to have a product that can be used for both needlepoint and for everyday life. How cool that the Greystone bag insert can double over as both! Or the leather clutch would be the perfect pop of blue for a GNO outfit!
Be sure to check out the collab at tigredetartan.com and greystoneneedlepoint.com !