Timeless Nature: 10 Famous William Morris Patterns and Their Enduring Legacy
William Morris (1834–1896), the visionary behind the Arts and Crafts Movement, revolutionized design with a return to handcraftsmanship and natural beauty. Through his firm, Morris & Co., he produced richly detailed patterns that merged fine art with functional design. At Docsun Home and Living, we draw immense inspiration from his dedication to intricate motifs.
His patterns, primarily for wallpaper and textiles, captured the intricate beauty of nature, reflecting a romantic idealism and critique of industrialization. Here are ten of his most influential patterns and how they’ve continued to influence style and design.
10 Iconic William Morris Patterns
1. Strawberry Thief (1883)
Essence: Perhaps Morris’s most famous design, depicting thrushes stealing strawberries from his garden. Originally a textile using the complex indigo-discharge method.
Legacy: Still widely reproduced on high-end fashion accessories like our scarf collection and silk scrunchies.
2. Trellis (1862)
Inspired by the rose trellises in his garden at Red House. A foundational piece of Arts and Crafts design.
3. Willow Boughs (1887)
A calm, flowing pattern of willow leaves, evoking a meditative, natural rhythm. Popular in bedroom interiors.
4. Marigold (1875)
A single-flower pattern featuring stylized marigold blooms, offering a minimal and refined choice.
5. Snakeshead (1876)
Featuring the Fritillaria Meleagris flower. A popular motif in modern fashion, often inspiring our scarf custom cases.
6. Pimpernel (1876)
Intricate scrolling vines and pimpernel flowers surround a central symmetry. One of Morris’s most recognizable wallpapers.
7. Fruit (1866)
Also known as “The Orange Tree,” featuring pomegranates and peaches. A celebration of abundance.
8. Honeysuckle (1883)
Designed by May Morris, William’s daughter. Showcases swirling blooms with a feminine softness.
9. Larkspur (1872)
A delicate floral with a vertical repeat, almost lace-like. Popular in romantic interior schemes.
10. Wandle (1884)
A complex interweaving of flowers and leaves with the depth and richness of tapestry.
The Enduring Legacy
Morris believed that beauty belonged in everyday life. Today, his work is experiencing a renaissance. Brands like Liberty London and fashion houses have reinterpreted his prints. In interior design, his wallpapers are embraced in both maximalist and minimalist homes.
Global Appeal & Public Domain
Since Morris died in 1896, his original designs are in the public domain. This means you can use them for custom printing on silk or other textiles without licensing fees. This opens incredible opportunities for designers.
However, note that modern digital adaptations by companies like Sanderson might be copyrighted. If you wish to develop a line, our Docsun Design Pattern guidelines can help.
(Our Big Fame in Prints series celebrates the legacy of textile pioneers.)
Create Your Own Masterpiece
Do you have your own patterns and designs you wish to print? We offer professional silk printing technology, and provide comprehensive bespoke services for making high-end
silk scarves,
Wholesale Satin Scrunchies,
apparel, and
pillowcases.
Please contact us to bring your creative vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was William Morris?
What is the most famous William Morris pattern?
Are William Morris designs in the public domain?
Can I print William Morris patterns on silk?
