Like the best brand stories, Studio Ford’s begins with its founder quitting her day job.

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Josie Ford went straight into marketing after college, but the corporate life never felt right. She was an art school major with a deep affinity for printmaking, especially painterly and hand-embroidered fabrics used in layered interiors. So in 2017, with little more than a series of intricate drawings and patterns she hoped to turn into wood blocks, Josie traveled to India, where she immersed herself in the vibrant world of block printing.

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Towns like Chanderi, which specializes in silk weaving, made an impression. In 2017, Josie launched Studio Ford outside Jaipur, where, seven years later, she continues to turn out her exquisite line of quilts, throws, tablecloths, and napkins—all masterfully handcrafted by local block printers, block carvers, dyers, and weavers.

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“I’m drawn to fabrics with a rich history of craftsmanship,” says Josie, whose line is beloved by A-list interior designers like General Assembly and Dee Murphy. Her reversible Acadia Quilt, with its imperfect geometric design, is constantly out of stock.

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From her busy studio in Los Angeles’ Koreatown, in the historic Gaylord Building, Josie sketches her collection, selects materials, and provides block carvers with the designs to create. Once the blocks are carved, they’re taken to printers, where colors are mixed and samples are stitched onto fabric. We spoke with Josie about her practice, the value of travel, and what she loves about handcrafted products.

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My design philosophy

I focus on creating pieces that showcase the dedication and skill behind every block-printed textile, handwoven fabric, and final product design. I strive to produce timeless designs that transcend trends so our clients can cherish them as heirlooms for years to come.

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What inspires me

I buy a lot of art and design books at antique stores and estate sales. I also grew up traveling a lot with my family. I've found a lot of inspiration from historic homes in different places. In Paris, the Musée d'Orsay and its collection of Art Nouveau furniture was very inspiring.

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What sets Studio Ford apart

The handcrafted aesthetic is characterized by irregularities, imperfections, and subtle variations. It adds depth, character, and authenticity to our designs, creating a sense of warmth and soulfulness. Block print and handloom weaving have rich cultural histories, and I find inspiration in the connection to artisanal craft, cultural identity, and community. They offer endless possibilities for experimentation.

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The one place in the world that represents my brand

Jaipur, where our products are made, is known for its block printing. I also work with weavers in a tiny town along the Narmada River. I have plans to expand to other areas in Ahmedabad.

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The patterns I’m loving right now

I’ve been working on new patterns influenced by Third Pompeian Style frescoes, the Wiener Werkstätte, traditional sari patterns, and Gustav Klimt’s landscapes.

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My idea of ultimate luxury

For me, luxury is about having the space to experiment with concepts and designs while collaborating with skilled artisans who bring a deep respect for traditional techniques.

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What I’d love to add to our assortment

I would love to make a silk canopy to go over a bed, and I have recently played around with two-tone colored silk. The yarn is spun, dyed, and—once it’s ready—put on the loom, which can take several days. Approximately three meters of fabric are woven daily. I’m also working on expanding into other categories (hint: furniture) and starting to work with handloom weavers. The process is entirely different but takes the same level of craftsmanship and skill.

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What’s next

I’m working on new collaborations, opening a showroom in my studio in Koreatown, and launching new products in different categories next spring. I’m also launching a block-print quilt collection in November.

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