The History of Printed Textiles with Janet O'Dell

Printed textiles evolved in Europe as a response to the popularity of Indian chintz fabrics known for their vibrant, colourfast designs. Despite early development of colourfast printing methods in Europe by 1670, large-scale production was hindered by legislation banning printed textiles to protect the silk industry, with exceptions allowing export production in England and no bans in the Netherlands.

Discover the origins and challenges of printed textiles in Europe, from early woodblock printing techniques to the advancement of roller printing which enabled faster, larger-scale, and more cost-effective production of printed cottons, leading to significant growth in the nineteenth century.

Janet O'Dell is an experienced independent quilt researcher, quiltmaker, and antique quilt collector. Since 2005, she has actively participated in international quilt study groups, seminars, and exhibitions. Her leadership roles include serving as Patron and Past President of Victorian Quilters Inc. She is an accredited quilt appraiser and judge, and has contributed as a guest curator and volunteer in various quilt-related institutions in Australia and overseas. With a professional background in business administration and adult education, Janet is now retired and dedicates her time to quilt and textile research and travel.

Your ticket includes tea or Market Lane coffee served before the presentation, and time to browse our exclusive range of books, gifts, and homewares at TJC Emporium.

This event is presented on-site at The Johnston Collection. Please see your ticket for details. NOTE: Tickets for this event do not include access to our house museum, Fairhall. Guided tours of the current exhibition can be booked separately.

This event is supported by The Colin Holden Charitable Trust.

Image: Oberkampf Manufactory, "Les Travaux de la Manufacture", 1783. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.