When we got a call from Blu Dot to discuss a design collaboration on their 2018 bedding collection, it felt right from the start. Here at Goldfinch, we’ve always loved Blu Dot and their designs. They have a clarity of vision and a trendsetting sense that is hard to beat. Plus, they’re a local Minneapolis success story and we loved that they wanted to work with a small, independent design company like ours. They were lovely to work with, open minded, and incredibly helpful, appreciative and responsive throughout the entire process. Not only are they stellar designers, but they’re wonderful people to boot.
Chaperone throw sample on the worktable in our design studio, November 2017
To develop their bedding collection, Blu Dot was sampling everything from duvets to shams. What they wanted from us were custom textiles to spice up the mix. It was a perfect match. The product development began with pieces from our existing collection, focusing on fabric details and sourcing. As those who’ve loved Goldfinch for years can attest, we always focus on handmade quality in our custom designs, and we only use natural fibers in our work. Sourced from Nepal, our handwoven fabric and textiles are made with the highest quality craftsmanship, which means no thread goes unnoticed.
We spent about four months working on samples, tailoring our designs to Blu Dot’s style and colors, going back and forth until we found the best mix. Then we ventured to Kathmandu, Nepal for a busy month working with our weavers to make sure all the details were executed according to plan. Ultimately, we landed on the beautiful group of handmade textiles you can now see at bludot.com and in Blu Dot stores nationwide.
Wool yarn for the Chaperone throws drying in the Kathmandu sun after coming from the dye bath, February 2018
LOVELY LINEN The Lovely Linen blanket, made of handspun natural linen, makes for the perfect addition to any piece of furniture in your home – especially since the fabric ages beautifully and gets softer over time. You can get creative with it as well - throw it over your shoulders for a walk down to the beach, or cozy up with one at the end of the dock as you’re sipping wine in the evening. It’s also perfect for packing on a car trip to your next vacation destination.
Lovely Linen throw in Color Mix 1 in the "Designed" Blu Dot mailer, May 2018
CHAPERONE The Chaperone basketweave throw blanket is made from the softest 100% wool and can be thrown over the side of a sofa or bed. This blanket is especially ideal for the fall when the weather turns a bit cooler – it’s soft, cozy, and warm, and can double as a luxuriously oversized shawl.
The Chaperone wool throw is ready for its close up! Blu Dot "Designed" mailer, May 2018
It’s been thrilling to see our designs for Blu Dot come to life, be offered to a wide audience, and become a part of the casual living lifestyle we love so much. So whether you’re a linen or a wool fan, there’s no doubt that these blankets are the perfect addition to those cool summer evenings. The only hard part now is deciding which Goldfinch + Blu Dot collection piece is the perfect fit for you. Cheers to cozy handmade warmth!