Saleh Abrahams is a young South African textile designer, who has been creating original fabrics since 2007. He launched his own store Constantia Fabrics in 2009, and has since transformed it into one of Cape Town’s top suppliers of high quality, handcrafted textiles that are both locally designed and manufactured.
Tell us a bit about yourself and how you became a textile designer.
I am a self-taught textile designer. I grew up in Grassy Park, Cape Town, and attended the Constantia Waldorf School. My family has been sourcing fabrics from around the world for many years, allowing me to learn from masters of the craft since adolescence.
Early in my career, I travelled around Asia in order to learn about traditional fabric production and textile design. I worked in Hong Kong for two years as a fabric buyer before starting my own business. These experiences have contributed to my expertise and have given my work a unique aspect.
What is the history of Constantia Fabrics?
Constantia Fabrics started out as a tiny front corner premises, spanning a mere 30 square metres. It has since grown into a substantial 350 square metre strong enterprise on the same premises, and I now own the building. The business also supports a thriving online dimension catering to nationwide clients, particularly in Johannesburg and along the Garden Route. I attribute this growth to my continued commitment to my clients, who appreciate my variety of original designs, and my sheer love of fabrics.
Describe your design process.
My design process is meticulously old-fashioned. I scan and photocopy from various books and decorative manuscripts that are manually stitched together in order to form shape and pattern. It is this hands-on dedication to each phase of the design process that distinguishes my designs and sets Constantia Fabrics apart from other fabric houses.
Constantia Fabrics is a business with a conscience; tell us about your outreach work…
Constantia Fabrics supports Project Playground, a Langa-based NGO that rehabilitates street children and provides a safe haven away from the streets.
Any exciting projects you are currently working on?
Most recently, I showcased my latest range of fabrics at the Inspire Trade Show at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, Gauteng, from 10-12 July 2014. Five new designs were launched at the show, expanding on my existing stable of designs.
From 4-9 August, I also showcased my designs to the hospitality and interior design trade in Lagos, Nigeria, as part of a trade mission supported by Wesgro. In addition, I exhibited at SARCDA, which took place from 21-24 August 2014.
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