Textile production machine with yarn being woven
Craft in Focus: Italian Fabric Mill

Craft in Focus: Italian Fabric Mill

In the heart of Italy’s Biella region, Vitale Barberis Canonico has been crafting high-quality fabrics since 1663. For over 360 years, this family-owned mill has been weaving together tradition and innovation, guided by a deep respect for craftsmanship and quality, now under the guidance of the 13th generation.

Black and white photo of mountains with trees and buildings in the foreground
White wool yarn hanging from a metal rod in an industrial setting
Three rolls of thick cream wool yarn on a dark surface

They foster a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and skilled hands. In an industry driven by machines, they never lose sight of the human touch. It’s not just about keeping traditions alive—it’s about honoring them while pushing boundaries. Despite the advanced machinery, many steps in their process still rely on the expertise of people.

Multiple spools of thread arranged in a grid pattern.
Decorative metal bracket on a textured wall
Person handling a weaving machine
Close-up of white yarn or thread

Selecting the right raw materials to go into the wool yarns and fabrics is an art form in itself. Some of their wool qualities have remained unchanged for over 40 years, this is made possible by practiced hands and sharp eyes at the company that gather the raw materials from the farms in Australia, South America and South Africa.

Close-up of a loom with threads and heddles in black and white.

Vitale Barberis is rooted in Biella, a region where mountains, rain, and forests naturally shaped the textile industry centuries ago. The abundance of water and wood once made it the perfect spot, in a time before there was electricity, for washing and finishing wools. This balance of heritage and innovation is what makes Vitale Barberis Canonico special. They’re proud to keep pushing forward while staying true to where they came from—crafting fabrics with a story woven into every thread.

Black and white industrial setting with machinery and thin white threads being weaved together showing an intricate pattern
Roll of brown paper with a pair of scissors on top, placed on a wooden surface.

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