Laura Ashley Home Furnishings has come a long way from its inception in 1953 when Bernard and Laura Ashley first started printing designs on their kitchen table. Laura in particular wanted to make patchwork quilts but was continually frustrated at the lack of quality and choices of linen available. After copious visits to the library to learn the skill of printing they outlaid the sum of ten pounds to purchase a screen, ink and linen. They produced small patchwork squares.

The business and in particular the name Laura Ashley is now synonymous with everything connected with home furnishings and has become one of Britains best loved brands.