Welsh Blankets
Carthen - A Welsh Blanket
Carthen and Carthenni
Carthen or in its plural form, carthenni, is a Welsh word meaning a traditional Welsh blanket, also sometimes called a tapestry blanket.
Historically, Carthen translates in to English as a woven coarse cloth. However, in todays world, Carthen relates to Welsh Blankets and bedspreads, and in particular blankets woven with colourful yarns and in geometric patterns. The most often used pattern is the Caernarfon Portcullis pattern although there are others such as the Dyffryn and Pensylvania patterns.
A FelinFach tapestry blanket, Dinefwr, on the loom.
Modern Day FelinFach Welsh Blankets
All FelinFach Welsh blankets are hand woven at mills in Wales. Designed in Wales, many are woven in the Caernarfon portcullis pattern in a wide variety of colours. Some exmaples are shown below.
About FelinFach
Located in Pembrokeshire Wales, our ethos is defined in the three words...
NATURAL TRADITIONAL HANDMADE.
- Hand woven iconic Welsh blankets.
- Hand dyed yarn, dyed with natural dyes only - no exceptions!
- Hand poured candles, candle accessories, Candle Making Workshops and soapery.
- Natural Dyeing Craft courses.
- Yarn shop, yarn bowls, project bags, tools and accessories for knitters and crafters.
- Welsh Gifts, made in Wales, handmade in Wales.
We are a proud supporter of Americymru the Campaign for Wool, Global Welsh and Red Dragon America.
Other FelinFach Pages
Last updated 16th February 2025
