John's Journal

Since the 1970’s, Iqbal Tiger has been painting tigers by hand. John has been selling his tigers for years. Each tiger painting is unique, and no two stripes are the same.  ‘Iqbal Tiger’ has been painting tiger tapestries for over fifty years.  “I have been doing this for over fifty years so I don’t need a ruler or pencil for this work. It’s a god-gift that I can paint even blind-folded…if I paint 100 paintings there will not be one similar line.” “There was a time when you couldn’t see any animals outside the city, the forests were gone. I thought, without animals, how will the forests grow? And if there are no forests, how will humans survive?”

HOW TO STYLE For a twist on a classic blue and white bed, start with Cala Sage Organic Sheets, where blue and green flowers add a layer of color. Next, add Kimari Mist Coverlet, a misty blue floral with a scalloped edge topped by our Amina Ecru Duvet Set, a sophisticated white layer. Amina Ecru Duvet Set Kimari Mist Coverlet + Shams Cala Sage Sheets Velvet White Throw Junu Sage Decorative Pillow Kia Sage Euro

  First, a Shams 101 What is a Sham? Shams are available in standard, king, or euro size. Standard and kings are the size of standard and king pillows, and euros are 26x26.   How to Style a Bed with Shams the John Robshaw WaY There are many ways to style a bed with shams. To get the layered look John Robshaw loves, start by placing euro shams at the back of the bed. Next will be your regular pillows you use for sleeping, and then the standard shams in the front. And, of course, if you’re a maximalist like John, you can add decorative pillows and throws on top of the bed. Shams can match the duvet or the quilt, or, if layering with both a quilt and a duvet, it can be fun to mix up the shams as in the examples below. 1. Match Duvet to Shams Shams coordinate with the matching duvet creating a simple cohesive look.   2. Match Quilt to Shams Shams coordinate with the matching quilt creating a simple styled look.   3. Match Standard Shams to Duvet & Match Euro Shams to Quilt Standard shams match the duvet, and euro shams match the quilt to add more dimension to a bed.   4. Match Standard Shams to Quilt & Match Euro Shams to Duvet Standard shams match the quilt, and euro shams match the duvet to give the bed more pop.   A Simple Formula for Buying Shams 1 Euro Sham, 1 Standard Shamfor a Twin 2 Euro Shams, 2 Standard Shamsfor a Queen 3 Euro Shams, 2 King Shamsfor a King

Some scholars believe block printing originated in India as early as 3000 BC. It is believed it was in India where the practice of printing fabrics was perfected, as early as the twelfth century, and it was Indian craftsmen who elevated it to the world-renowned art form it became. We often celebrate the block printer, but just as talented are the artisans who carve the prints into the blocks. Block carving is its own art, and the craftspeople who make block carvings are very specialized. The best blocks come from knotless, smooth cross sections of teak tree trunks. The wood is soaked in oil sometimes for up to two weeks, sanded smooth, and then whitened with chalk. The carvers trace designs onto the surface and then, using only hammer and chisel and a delicate touch, whittle patterns into the wood. A well-made block can last through printing anywhere from 1,000 to 1,500 meters of fabric before its fine edges wear down. For especially fine designs, some blocks are made of brass or copper, with crisp-edged strips that are bent on a tree trunk and affixed to a base. A new design is first traced onto the wood with black pencil. Then it’s “punched” into the wood so a carver can refine it with a chisel. Detailed carving of a new block can take many hours or a couple of days to complete.

Know your bolster from your euro. Here are 5 ways to use 5 different pillow sizes in your home. DECORATIVE PILLOW 22" x 22" The most versatile of pillows. Can be used on beds, sofas and chairs. SHOP NOW BOLSTER 17" x 32" Great as a centerpiece for a simple bed. SHOP NOW KIDNEY PILLOW 12" x 18" Also known as a small bolster or lumbar, great as a centerpiece for a bed with two decorative pillows, or by itself on a sofa or chair. SHOP NOW EURO 26" x 26" Can be used as a headboard, or as a base layer behind shams and pillow cases. Euros are also used on the ends of a sofa, as a single pillow for a chair. Layer them behind smaller pillows to show more depth. SHOP NOW KING EURO 30" x 34" Great as a headboard if you don’t have one or as a floor pillow. SHOP NOW

Above: John Robshaw Shop in Falls Village Fifteen years ago, I purchased a 1870’s house in Sharon, Connecticut. Years later, I opened a store in nearby Falls Village. My wife and I wanted to spend more time at home with our daughter - it all made sense. The area has transformed into a designer hub, with notable names like Bunny Williams, Hendricks Churchill and Michael Trapp nearby. Below is a list of some of my favorite spots, as well as some that I have on my list to discover. The team made a Google map for you for convenience. I invite you to visit and say hello — I'm usually in the shop on Fridays. — John VIEW JOHN ROBSHAW’S GOOGLE MAP SHOP John Robshaw Shop - Falls Village, CTOne of a kind vintage Indian furniture, bedding, textiles & more. 100 Main Street - Falls Village, CTExplore Bunny Williams collection and other local artisans at this centrally located shop. Adobe Home Goods - Millerton, NYTerrific home goods - got some beautiful wine glasses here recently! Marche - Falls Village, CTJust opened home goods shop. Michael Trapp - West Cornwall, CTAntiques and gardens galore! Montage Antiques - Millerton, NYGreat finds await! Harney Teas - Millerton, NYEveryone’s favorite tea emporium. Hammertown Barn - Pine Plains, NYWonderful antiques and home goods. Lawrence Jeffrey - Litchfield, CTGreat estate jewelry. Milton Market - Litchfield, CTModern day general store. Orangerie - Millbrook, CTAn interior design and home store that doubles as a greenhouse. Plain Goods - New Preston, CTA home goods store that will make you want to refurbish an antique farmhouse. Pergola - New Preston, CTAn uncommon collection of indoor and outdoor decor. Privet House - New Preston, CTAn emporium of antiques that’s good for the soul. RT Facts - Kent, CTCool vintage furniture and one of a kind pieces. Montage - Millerton, NYA massive collection of antiques, browse for hours. Black Sheep Mercantile - Millbrook, NYVintage menswear. Millbrook Antique Mall - Millbrook, NYOver 30 vendors under one roof. EAT Mountainside Cafe - Falls Village, CTGreat sandwiches and soups. John’s favorite is the Southwest Salad. Don’t forget to get a cookie, they’re incredible! And the sales team is addicted to The Magic Bars. It’s a problem! Whitehart Inn - Salisbury, CTHistoric inn with a beautiful lawn and wraparound porch. No better spot to grab a drink. Fern - Lakeville, CTNew hotspot that took over the Fire Department Building with delicious pizza and everything else. Falls Village Inn - Falls Village, CTThe tap room is open for dinner 7 days a week, John loves eating calamari on their patio in the summer. Stissing House - Pine Plains, NYOne of John’s favorites for dinner or Sunday brunch. This is where he goes for his birthday. Petraroia Deli - Litchfield, CTBreakfast and lunch with a great porch. Arethusa Farm - Bantam, CTHomemade cheese and ice cream, what more could you want! Irving Farm - Millerton, NYHip local coffee shop with tasty pastries. Le Gamin - Sharon, CTClassic french food. Paley’s Farm Market - Sharon, CTDelicious farm sourced food. Sweet William’s Coffee Shop & Bakery - Salisbury, CTBaked goods & coffee. Babette’s Kitchen - Millbrook, NYCoffee shop & bakery. STAY Falls Village Inn - Falls Village, CTSleep on John Robshaw bedding! Whitehart Inn - Salisbury, CTClassic Connecticut Inn with wonderful ambiance. TroutbeckEstate hotel right on the border of New York and Connecticut. Great amenities including a farm to table restaurant. Mayflower Inn - Washington, CTCelerie Kimble decorated this New England spot with lots of fun bright colors. DO The Center on Main Arts and community hub. Great Falls Falls Village is named for these 200 foot waterfalls - part of the Appalachian Trail. Lime Rock Park - Salisbury, CTThis road racing track is home to the Skip Barber Racing School and hosts action packed events for the whole family. Clarke Outdoors - West Cornwall, CTSpend the day kayaking down the Housatonic River. No cars for hours, just trees and birds. Harlem Valley Rail Trail - Millerton, NYSpend the day biking. Wassaic Project - Wassaic, NYArtist run gallery and education center. MASS MOCA - North Adams, MAA bit of a drive from Falls Village, but a great day trip. Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the largest centers in the world for contemporary and performing arts. HOW Best to drive, but if you wanted to take the train and uber or taxi to the main Falls Village hub, it is possible. Take the Harlem bound Metro North train from Grand Central to Southwest and transfer to the Wassaic train. Wassaic is about 30 minutes from downtown Falls Village, it’s best to schedule an Uber or Taxi ahead of time. VIEW JOHN ROBSHAW’S GOOGLE MAP

It’s International Astrology Day and the stars are aligned. Here’s your pillow sign, according the the zodiac, of course! Aries Express your vibrant nature with this resplendent pillow - it’s sure to be a star! Nabhi Euro Taurus Ground yourself with deep sultry green, teal, and peacock in a calm repeating pattern. Mizan Peacock Kidney Pillow Gemini Dazzle your visitors with your wit, and these gorgeous purple and blue blooms. Hayati Decorative Pillow Cancer Dive deep into conversation while resting on soothing blues with jewel-like blossoms and tassels. Sofi Indigo Kidney Pillow Leo Show your style with detailed birds, flora, and even a dragonfly hand painted to perfection. Nadal Bolster Virgo Align and ground your home with the structural and stately fluted columns of this bolster. Habi Bolster Libra Light lavender florets and buds are sure to charm anyone who sees them, just as you do. Acarya Decorative Pillow Scorpio Indigo blooms on sage vines will showcase your depth and allure. Gajara Azure Euro Sagittarius Each shibori is a unique conversation piece, and will bring a sense of fun to any Sagittarian home. Pari Bolster Capricorn Summon good fortune and a sense of calm with this neutral edition of a tried-and-true classic. Verdin Sand Decorative Pillow Aquarius A unique and elegant hand painted bird will bring an air of excitement in an Aquarian’s setting. Bird Watcher Decorative Pillow Pisces Simultaneously modern and elegant, bright and calming, just like Pisces. Ekatan Bolster SHOP PILLOWS

Wash sheets weekly. Even if you shower at night, sheets get dirty while we sleep. Use cold water on delicate cycle for both cotton and linen. For best results, wash sheets by themselves. This ensures detergent reaches them, but also minimizes wrinkles. It also keeps things like zippers and other clothing items from ripping or scratching the sheets. Tumble dry on low and take out immediately when done and fold. This will keep them wrinkle free. For a crisp and cool sheet, we love line drying sheets in the summer. Tips from a Stylist: Take sheets out when slightly damp and air dry to avoid wrinkles. If you accidentally leave sheets in the dryer for a while, you can put a damp towel in the dryer and run for 10-15 minutes.

A late year trip to India was just the thing for me. Collaborating with talented makers in various formats from printing to weaving is what keeps me motivated. I still stay in old palaces turned hotels that are a bit run down. It reminds me of when I started. You might ask for a fresh lime soda three times before it arrives, or your shirts come back from the laundry with no buttons - ah, the quirkiness of India.Whether in the back of a bumpy car stopping to buy vintage lassi cups and Naga stools for my shop or going to the Craft museum to bathe in the history of textiles, I am in heaven. I walk out into the sunlight full and happy with the world.I found a heap of antique rugs from Punjab in crazy colors - I grab them all. (Get one quick, they are selling fast.)I visited the Calico Museum of Textiles in Ahmedabed, possibly the best museum in the world for Indian textiles. The same lady who took me around 30 years ago is still leading the tours! In Jaipur one workshop just started hand screening and we were throwing color down on the screen table to make large blue and white panels that look like Chinese landscape paintings.I often think of mentors I’ve had along the way. I am grateful and thankful. I try to pass on the things I have learned.In the year ahead, I will look for new colors, new ideas and new challenges.Whether something succeeds or fails, make good use of the experience. Obstacles standing in your way become the way. Nothing good is granted by the gods without effort and application.

Shown above: Ramra Light Indigo Organic Duvet To get a fluffy duvet, many stylists recommend either ordering a down comforter that is a size larger (so a king size down insert for a queen size duvet) OR using two inserts in the duvet. John Robshaw Down makes comforters that are OVERSIZED to fill the corners of the duvet, AND have maximum fill power eliminating the need to use two comforters. Corner loops to tie the duvet also ensure the insert doesn’t shift inside the duvet. Shown above: Ramra Indigo Organic Duvet See sizing below of our comforters vs the competition. Another important consideration when trying to get the fluffiest duvet possible is to look at fill power.  Fill power is a measure of loft or fluffiness. The higher the fill power the more air an ounce of down can trap, and the greater the insulation. Most down starts at 400, John Robshaw down is filled at 650, ensuring the ideal warmth and loftiness in your duvet. Baffle box construction maximizes loftiness and minimizes cold spots. Shown above: Vamika Periwinkle Organic Duvet It’s important that down comes from a Responsible Down Standard (RSD) Supplier. All John Robshaw Down is Responsible Down and highest quality down. John Robshaw Down is also hypo-allergenic, for those that are sensitive to allergies. And John Robshaw also offers Alternative Down comforters and pillows, for those that prefer to be down free. Shown above: John Robshaw Down Comforter SHOP DOWN

We’ve asked some of our favorite friends & designers for their tips on creating a beautiful table and party, outdoors or in, with John Robshaw tabletop. 1. Mix & Match “For casual outdoor eating, don’t worry about matching everything. Be creative by using mismatched plates and glasses, fill the center with florals and greenery. And don’t forget to set the mood with candles!” — Shauna Jones @shaunaglenndesign Shown in photo: John Robshaw Aina Coral Napkins 2. Incorporate a Seasonal Touch “I love to mix my garden flowers, small bowls of fresh berries and potted plants for a very seasonal and layered summer table.” — Shelley Johnstone Paschke @shelleyjohnstonedesign Shown in photo: John Robshaw Asra Sage Tablecloth & Napkins 3. Choose a Color Palette “Blues and whites are the perfect color scheme for summer. Fresh blue eggs from my Easter Egger hens are the perfect natural decor, with the added butterfly bush blooms to pull the look together.” — The Styled Porch @thestyledporch Shown in photo: John Robshaw Asra Indigo Tablecloth, Vakula Periwinkle Placemats and Aina Light Indigo Napkins 4. Add a twist! “Include an element of the unexpected - it keeps momentum going and prevents the dreaded dinner party slow burn. I’ve surprised dinner party guests with a caricature artist (reveal & share the drawings over dinner) and ‘dessert in disguise’ (bring out wigs for those in attendance to wear at the end of the meal). It makes it all more memorable and fun.” — Natalie Steen @thenatnote Shown in photo: John Robshaw Pavati Sage Placemat and Stitched Napkins in Coral (not included in sale) 5. Keep it Simple & Stylish “It’s always fun to layer placemats with tablecloths, both for utility and for good looks.” — Amal Kapen @amalkapeninteriors Shown in photo: John Robshaw Aina Sage Napkins

1) Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives Photo: The Silver Spoon Landaa Giraavaru is an island in the Baa Atoll in the Maldives (UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve). Frankly, any of the beaches in the Maldives are incredible! 2) Krabi, Thailand Photo: Nina R Krabi is on the west coast of southern Thailand at the mouth of the Krabi River where it flows into Phang Nga Bay. There are great Thai houses close to the beach to rent and nice sleepy beaches (except for long tail boats of course). 3) Koh Yao Noi, Thailand John taking a walk on the beach. Photo: Chris WiseClose to Phuket, but without the crowds. 4) Desroches Island, Seychelles Photo: TripAdvisor Desroches Island in Seychelles is the main island of the Amirante Islands in Seychelles. 5) Tangalle, Sri Lanka Photo: Anantara Hotels, Resorts, & SpasTangalle in the southern province of Sri Lanka boasts untouched beaches with azure waters. Don't forget your towel! Photo: Rachel Robshaw

Our family pet, Turkey Bird, is a larger than life presence in our house. He’s also inspired my work whether it’s wallpaper, pillows or art. I pulled together some of my favorite Turkey Bird inspired pieces from current (and previous) collections. Turkey Bird in his favorite spot with our Lapis print as drapes behind him. Turkey Bird is the inspiration for our Suka Moss print, which shows Turkey Bird flying around the house and landing in our plants and trees. Our handcrafted grasscloth wallpaper collection has a wonderful texture and elegant feel, made by skilled weavers using sustainable and renewable horizontally woven sisal. This print is also available as a fabric. Suka Moss Wallpaper & Fabric EXPLORE SUKA MOSS WALLPAPER EXPLORE SUKA MOSS FABRIC Here’s a coloring page for you to design your own Turkey Bird print below. DOWNLOAD COLORING PAGE Suka Moss print on a bolster from a previous collection. SHOP HAND PAINTED PILLOWS Hand painted tapestry with Turkey Bird. One of a kind piece from a previous collection. SHOP TAPESTRIES   Regina, my daughter, loved Turkey Bird from the moment they met. Rachel, my wife, and Turkey Bird. Rachel has always been a bird person - she had birds as a kid. She met Turkey Bird when she lived in San Francisco in 2009. Her roommate brought him home and they instantly bonded. Me and the bird.

John Robshaw duvets and quilts come with matching shams and euros. Need help styling? See a few tips below. SHAMS The size of regular pillows, shams are decorative pillows for the bed. EUROS The square euro (26” x 26)” can be used as a headboard for extra height. HOW TO STYLE Use 1 Euro for a Twin headboard, 2 Euros for a Queen and 3 Euros for a King size bed. Use matching shams in front for a simple and classic bed. Or mix things up with contrasting euros and an extra decorative pillow. SHOP BEDDING

It’s International Astrology Day and the stars are aligned. Here’s your pillow sign, according the the zodiac, of course! Aries Aries is bright, colorful, and full of surprises, just like this embroidered pillow. Himmat Decorative Pillow Taurus When you can take a moment to enjoy the hand painted details, you’re blooming Taurus. Sunny Marigold Decorative Pillow Gemini Mysterious and blue, this pillow is reflective just like you Gemini! And also just like you, it works well in any environment. Panav Outdoor Pillow Cancer Cancerians love a cozy spot. Meet the Aleppo King Euro: A classic print, oversized shape, with a multitude of different ways to cozy up. Aleppo Indigo King Euro Leo Fiery, deep, and vibrant, the Jaivant Decorative Pillow is sure to work in any Leo’s home. Jaivant Decorative Pillow Virgo Grounded, tall, and courageous, this tree represents some of the best traits of Virgo. Apple Tree Decorative Pillow Libra Libra loves to stand out, so having this unique floral pillow in your home makes total sense. Oja Kidney Pillow Scorpio Full of deep symbolism, Scorpio is mysterious and unexpected, much like the butterfly. Lapis Butterfly Decorative Pillow Sagittarius This unexpected and colorful hand printed chevron pillow is a great way to bring the uplifting Sagittarius energy to a home. Girivar Bolster Capricorn See the Capricorn in this classic pillow; refined, tested and true, with a bit of unexpected flair. Lapis Metallic Euro Aquarius No-one expects you to blend in Aquarius. Bring your depth and whimsy to your home with this extra-long and extra-chic lumbar pillow. Vintage Stripe Indigo Lumbar Pillow Pisces Deep as the ocean and tons of fun, this pillow feels like a party. Mirror accents will help you dance the night away Pisces. Zaara Kidney Pillow SHOP PILLOWS

We asked some of our favorite designers and artists to create tables with our fall prints. What followed was a wonderful mix of viewpoints and aesthetics. ♦ Benjamin Reynaert @aspoonfulofbenjamin “I shy away from the beige-ification of tablescapes. A beautiful table that features a fun mix of bold color, unique objects and joyous pattern is more my jam.” Benjamin Reynaert works with home brands and interior designers to help bring their stories to life. He is based in NYC and Delaware, where he's currently renovating a turn of the century Victorian. Follow along on the journey via @aspoonfulofbenjamin. ♦ Billy Ceglia @billyceglia “A casual Sunday brunch.” Billy Ceglia is known for interiors that transcend period and time, creating classic environments that are perfect for modern living. His distinctively hip, modern, and witty flair endears him to his clients, who come to him for rooms that are infused with glamour and elegance without being stuffy or overdone. ♦ Amy Kummer @amykummerinteriors “Fall alfresco entertaining made simple. I wanted to show that all you need is beautiful table linens to create a special moment for company outside.” Amy Kummer Interiors is a full-service, Houston-based interior design studio welcoming a fresh traditional aesthetic into the modern home. ♦ Charlotte Lucas @charlottehlucas “A casual outdoor birthday celebration.” Charlotte Lucas Design is known for bold color, pattern and whimsy detail. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Charlotte Lucas Design is celebrating ten years of business. ♦ Dana Brandwein of DBO Home @dbo_home “Fall colors and textures. Layering pattern, texture and color for a cozy table. It was lots of fun adding the pops of color and pattern from John's collection with our neutral favorites.” Dana and her husband, Daniel Oates, are designers & makers working out of their home studios in Sharon, Connecticut. We've been making what we think of as modern heirlooms since 2007 (and together in the business since 2008). We combine our love of vintage modern aesthetic and nature in everything we do, including handmade porcelain tableware and accessories, lighting and custom furniture.