Forez Terre de Textile

For a very long time, weaving has been practiced in the Forez region to meet local and regional needs. Woolen sheets, linen, and hemp cloth were the main products of peasant weavers who worked from home to supplement their income. From independent hand weavers of the 16th century to today’s high-end productions, the mountains around Panissières proudly claim their identity as the "Land of Weavers," a heritage of a multi-century textile tradition.

Described as having one hand on the loom and the other on the plow, exposed to multiple crises and famines like the rest of the population, the independent peasant weaver gradually saw his status evolve into that of a simple executor for the orders of patrons under the Ancien Régime, before reclaiming his independence again in the 19th century. Mechanization further increased between 1870 and the beginning of the 20th century. The gradual electrification of rural areas in the first third of the 20th century allowed factories to be established in small villages without rivers.

Today, in the Montagnes du Matin, around fifteen textile companies and artisans are still active, keeping the tradition alive. Most of them specialize in high-end productions and rare, prestigious craftsmanship.

Réalisation : Magaux Pelisson

Images : Quentin Pélisson

Production : Y.N. Productions

Diffusion : TL7

2023