The Cummersdale design collection consists of 25,000 designs which provide a unique resource reflecting the changing trends in textile design from the floral works, associated with the Bannister Hall collection, to the geometric designs of the later 20th century, created by some of the leading designers in this field.

Stead McAlpin was acquired by the Partnership in 1965 as a base for the production of its own designs created by Cavendish Textiles, and also as a commission printer for external contracts. The factory remained part of the Partnership until September 2007.

The Partnership has retained the textile archive to ensure this valuable historic record of textile design is available for use by researchers and designers who are welcome to visit the archive to discuss their requirements with our experienced team.