DUKE ALUMNA GINA WICKER LAUNCHES NATIVE SPUN

Company Taking a “Slow Foods” Approach to Textile Production

Gina Wicker, WEMBA '97, announces the formation of her company, Native Spun, a textile manufacturing firm producing high-quality handwoven textiles in North Carolina. Taking an approach akin to the slow food movement, Wicker sources high-quality, domestically produced fibers and yarns for use in her handwoven textile products. Ranging from custom upholstery for the residential interior design segment to decorative throws for design-driven consumers and performance throws for the hospitality trade, her products target those with an appreciation for handcrafted, locally produced items.

Founded with sustainability, reuse and recycling in mind, Wicker purchased vintage looms from her long-time customer, Textillery Weavers, when the company owners announced their retirement. "Textiles is in my blood, and I couldn't pass up this opportunity," said Wicker, "I worked on looms like these while pursuing my undergraduate degree at North Carolina State University, so this new venture feels a bit like coming home."

All products are designed and handwoven in Burlington, North Carolina and are made with a high-end aesthetic in mind. While not everyone appreciates the maker movement and is willing to pay a premium for domestic production, Wicker believes the same consumers who buy local craft beer or organic blueberries are squarely in her target demographic.

“We all understand that luxurious touches and ease of cleaning are even more important now as we spend time at home and outdoors with family and friends,” said Wicker. “While the term handwoven is common in the textile industry, we believe customers will appreciate that Native Spun throws are designed and woven in the U.S. by a team who feels ownership for every piece produced and is paid fairly for their contribution.”

"One of the things I enjoy most is working with clients to design a collection that is perfect for their region and design aesthetic," Wicker said. "Collaborative design development is part of the Native Spun DNA. I’m thrilled to be hands-on in the textile industry again, weaving alongside my team to create an American-made product that we are incredibly proud to present to consumers, designers and retailers.”