Meet the Maker: Beckford Silk

We're delighted to have partnered with Beckford Silk to create an exclusive collection of silk scarves inspired by objects from the Royal Armouries collection.

Based on the Gloucestershire and Worcestershire border, Beckford Silk is a family-run business with more than 50 years of experience in designing, printing and making silk scarves. Founded in 1975 by Marthe and James Gardner, the company remains a true family enterprise today, with siblings Anne and Robbie Gardner leading the business, while their parents continue to play an active role.

History Reimagined in Silk

The Royal Armouries collection provided a rich source of inspiration for the scarf designs. After exploring photographs of objects from the collection, Anne began experimenting with details from armour, using colour, texture and scale to transform historic objects into striking contemporary designs.

"Suddenly I was getting excited and just knew that I was on the right track."

What followed was several weeks of creative development, resulting in a collection that celebrates the craftsmanship, artistry and intricate details found in armour from around the world. 

Crafted with Care

Beckford Silk is one of only three silk printers remaining in the UK and the only one specialising in the design, printing and manufacture of silk scarves.

Every scarf is produced using skills that have been refined over more than five decades. Each piece is finished with a hand-rolled edge and carefully sewn by a team of local makers, reflecting the craftsmanship that has become synonymous with the Beckford Silk name.

"My favourite part was the point at which the scarves seemed to just design themselves!"

A Scarf to Treasure

At the heart of the collection is the idea of creating a lasting reminder of a visit to the Royal Armouries.

"I want visitors of The Royal Armouries to be able to take home a splash of colour, a happy reminder of their visit, but above all, a beautifully handcrafted scarf that will become a wardrobe treasure for years to come."

Among the collection, Anne's favourite design is the Kabuto Helmet scarf, which combines vibrant turquoise and orange tones inspired by Japanese armour.

Inspired by the Royal Armouries collection and crafted by one of Britain's last specialist silk printers, these scarves bring together history, creativity and traditional craft in a truly unique way. The collection also includes the Lamellar Armour and Horse Armour silk scarves, inspired by historic objects from the Royal Armouries collection. Their rich colours, intricate patterns and Asian influences make them a perfect complement to the Genghis Khan: How the Mongols Changed the World exhibition. 

Explore the Beckford Silk collection and find your favourite design in our online shop >