At Family Heir-Loom Weavers, Inc., they prefer the old school approach to textiles. They use old, outdated power looms to reproduce historically accurate carpets, bedding and clothing material. Their machines are slower than modern looms, requiring complicated set-ups by hand, but they say the finished product is more authentic.
"80% of our stuff is seamed together, " said David Kline, the company's founder. " And we do it, the width, just like they did in the 19th century."
From their humble beginning 30 years ago, David and Carole Kline have watched their family-owned business grow from two looms to forty-two, operating in two separate Red Lion locations, with 32 employees. Their work can be found in nine U.S. presidential homes, many national historic sites and in several museums around the world.
"We're happy and proud to see our stuff in places like that and never thought that I would," said Kline.
And since 1997, Hollywood has called on the Kline's for carpeting and material in several movies, such as "Amistad," "Cold Mountain," and most recently, the oscar-nominated "Lincoln."
While working a loom during our visit, five-year weaver Heather Wagner noted with pride her connection to the silver screen.
"I'm actually proud to announce I did the carpet for the Lincoln movie on this loom," she said.
Their son Patrick handles day to day operations of the business, as president of the company. While his 81-year-old dad enjoys keeping the machines in working order and searching for unwanted looms from other mills and textile schools looking to upgrade.
"To make room for a new loom, textile schools have to get rid of the old looms, " Kline explained. " Carole says they call me instead of the junk man," he added with a chuckle. "We have more looms per square inch than any mill in the country."
For their non-famous customers, a restored log house next door showcases three floors of period bed covers, table runners, curtains and pillows.
