Liberty, the renowned central London department store, is significantly expanding its fabric and haberdashery offerings, embracing a widespread resurgence in crafting across the UK. The move sees its fabrics department more than double in size to 4,630 sq ft, now showcasing over 2,500 different fabrics, supported by a team of 17 specialist sales staff. This autumn, the store also plans to expand its haberdashery section and introduce crafting workshops, catering to a growing community of makers.
The decision by Liberty, which first opened its doors near Oxford Circus in 1924, reflects a robust demand for craft materials. Fabric sales at the store surged by 11% last year, a trend it expects to continue through 2026. This growth is not only from domestic crafters but also from affluent international shoppers purchasing luxury fabrics for bespoke tailoring in their home countries. Lydia King, Liberty’s retail managing director, highlighted that fabric is one of the highest sales density areas in the store, indicating its significant commercial importance.
The renewed interest in crafts such as quilting and crochet has been significantly amplified by social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, where demonstration videos are widely shared. Television programmes, such as 'The Great British Sewing Bee', have also played a role in popularising these skills. Research from the Crafts Council indicates that craft participation among UK adults has increased from 15% to 20% in just a few years, bringing making into the mainstream. This trend spans a broad age range, from teenagers acquiring their first sewing machines to experienced international crafters.
For UK households, this trend offers economic implications. The rise of online marketplaces like Etsy and eBay provides new avenues for individuals to sell handmade items, potentially generating supplementary income. Furthermore, the growing popularity of buying second-hand clothing, which often requires alterations, is encouraging more people to learn sewing skills, potentially saving money on new purchases or professional tailoring. This shift towards DIY and handcrafted items also aligns with a broader consumer desire for originality and sustainability.
Liberty's strategic investment in its fabric and haberdashery departments stands in contrast to the challenges faced by some other luxury retailers. While rivals like Harvey Nichols face potential sales and House of Fraser continues outlet closures, Liberty, founded in 1875, is achieving strong sales by tapping into this cultural shift. The store's expanded space allows for better display of its growing range of own-label fabrics, including new georgette, sequin, and sparkly thread versions of its famous Tana Lawn range, alongside traditional cottons.