If you’ve come across the name Guy Goodfellow, you’ve likely seen his unique Olive Sacking fabric pop up in stylish home décor collections and artisan shops. One of the most talked-about pieces is the Olive Sacking large lumbar cushion beloved for its rich texture, muted color palette, and relaxed elegance. But what really goes into this piece, and why are collectors and interior designers willing to spend around £65 on a single small cushion in this collection? This topic explores the craftsmanship, design philosophy, material sourcing, and pricing of the Guy Goodfellow Olive Sacking range, offering clarity for anyone curious about why it commands such attention.
Origins and Inspiration
Guy Goodfellow’s Olive Sacking fabric draws its inspiration from traditional sacks once used in Mediterranean olive harvests. Crafted in India to recreate that open weave and tactile texture, each piece speaks of quiet sophistication. This isn’t fabric meant to shout; rather, it quietly anchors a room with natural appeal and artisanal quality. Designers appreciate how it blends rugged and refined elements effortlessly.
Handwoven Style
- Loose, open weave for relaxed drape
- Soft cotton-sisal blend for hand-crafted feel
- Natural dye colors like olive, indigo, and rosewood
Because it is handwoven, slight irregularities give each yard its individual character. That sense of authenticity justifies the higher price point for many buyers seeking layered texture and visual depth.
Product Range and Variants
The Olive Sacking collection is offered in a few key formats:
- Fabric by the metre suitable for upholstery, loose covers, curtains, and linings
- Cushions small lumbar, square, or large lumbar formats filled with ethically sourced feather pads
- Accessories occasional pieces like scrunchies or tissue box covers
An example is the small lumbar cushion, priced at £65, with larger luminaries or squares commanding higher prices accordingly. The inclusion of a feather pad, invisible zip, and coordinated backing fabrics makes each cushion a complete, ready-to-use décor piece.
Quality, Craftsmanship, and Price
So why £65 for a small lumbar cushion? It comes down to several factors:
- Material sourcing: cotton-sisal blend imported from India, dyed and woven in small artisan runs
- Production standards: ethical craftsmanship, durable stitching, and ease-care fabrics designed to withstand everyday use
- Hand craftsmanship: each cushion is individually made, pattern-matched, and packaged using luxury components
- Design credentials: Guy Goodfellow’s reputation within the premium décor market adds value and branding
The result is not just fabric sewn into a pillow it’s an object of intentional design, a labor-of-love piece that balances cost with desirable features and provenance.
Comparison with Similar Products
Where does Guy Goodfellow’s Olive Sacking stand in the broader market? Comparable cushions by luxury homeware brands or high-end artisans often fall in the £60£100 range for similar quality and origin stories. While mass-produced cushions may be cheaper, they lack the texture, limited-run authenticity, and sustainable sourcing that Olive Sacking delivers.
Cushion buyers who appreciate subtle sophistication typically find that paying a premium delivers higher satisfaction and longer-lasting visual appeal.
Sourcing and Purchasing
If you’re considering adding Olive Sacking to your space, there are a few ways to source it:
- Guy Goodfellow Collection website custom cushions and fabrics direct from the designer
- Selected boutiques and platforms small-lot cushion sellers on Etsy or Chairish carry similar striped or solid variants
- High-end design retailers outlets like Sash Lowdon Designs offer made-to-order trims and color options
Lead times range from two to three weeks for customized orders, and shipping across regions like the UK is often free, which further justifies the investment.
Styling Tips and Uses
The versatility of Olive Sacking’s aesthetic makes it useful in a range of styling contexts:
- Pair lumbar cushions with linen throws for a layered boho vibe
- Create contrast by combining olive or indigo pillows with earthy sofas or rattan furniture
- Mix with patterned cushions to showcase tactile texture against prints
- Use scrunchie or dining runner variants to echo cushion colors in smaller accessories
Designers point out that this fabric works particularly well in rooms that emphasize natural materials think wood, leather, or neutral-toned ceramics.
Maintenance and Longevity
Olive Sacking cushions are built with durability in mind:
- Cotton-sisal blend holds up to gentle use and retains shape
- Removable feather pads allow for easy airing or replacement
- Spot cleaning and gentle machine wash guidance ensures upkeep
Proper care ensures that the natural weave remains intact, and any slight irregularities continue to feel like design features rather than flaws.
Guy Goodfellow’s Olive Sacking collection may be priced at a premium compared to mass-market cushions, but for those interested in texture, authenticity, and artisanal detail, the £65 small lumbar cushion or larger formats offer genuine value. With roots tracing to Mediterranean harvest heritage, handwoven texture, and ethical craftsmanship, each piece tells a story beyond mere decoration. If your home décor aesthetic values subtlety, tactility, and thoughtful design, investing in Olive Sacking can be a smart decision one that both delights the eye and resonates with conscientious design sensibilities.