SUNDAYS AT THE CHATEAU: WHAT IS TOILE DE JOUY?
Sundays at the Chateau are BACK! This week I delve into the glorious world of Toile de Jouy. This iconic French fabric has graced the decoration of the world’s most beautiful homes, from chateaux in France to mansions in America, for centuries. Instantly recognisable, it’s an icon of French design. But today I answer the question secretly asked by many - ‘What is Toile de Jouy?”
Escape to the chateau with ’The Chateau Diaries’ 🏰
In 'Sundays at the Chateau', chatelaine Stephanie answers all your questions about life in the 16th century Chateau de Lalande, in the heart of rural France ❤️
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I feel I have just got an O level in French traditional fabric, thanks Stephanie.
Same here. Excellent
Me too 😁
This is like my new ritual before going to sleep
@Darius PAPAZOGLOU samee in Vienna ❤️
same🙌🏽
Before going to sleep I do the same, enjoy the vlog. Cermany.❤
Im always listening afternoon or early evening on the east coast of the US so goes perfectly with a glass of wine.
Darius PAPAZOGLOU - me too! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️🇦🇺
Dear Stephanie, just two weeks ago I was watching your video about the twin beds and their beautiful fabric headboards. You took us into the room with the Toile De Jouy and you kept saying these words. I kept saying to myself, "what is Toile de Jouy?" I didn't know how to spell it even! So I typed into google as best I could and up came Toile de Jouy!!!! I then realized that it is that very style of fabric I love, but I merely found out that it was 'repeated patterns' of scenes. Now, today I have found out so much more through you. We are from Belfast originally, and my husband was a textile machinery fitter for the largest company in the world at the time who made machinery for flax, linen etc., James Mackie & Sons. He traveled for months, in the 70's and early 80's to Iran, Burma, Tailand to build all the machinery in the mills, the men who did this were called 'Outside erectors' . We lived in Rasht, Iran in 1973/4 and lived on a compound of six bungalows. In 1984 we emigrated to Durban, South Africa, and he worked for Frame Pty Ltd., I am sure Percy would know of them, a very large Textile Company in Durban. Then we came here in 1990 and he became the Agent for Mackie in Australasia, we had a good business. Then, in 1998-1999 we started to see cheap imports of machinery parts from China, we could not compete with the cheap prices, and one by one all the mill owners took their whole business to China, where they could also have cheap labour and so Australia lost it's thriving Textile industry. When you talked about the Carding, the rollers etc. I knew exactly what you were talking about as I got to know the whole system of the mill by dealing with the spare parts, large pieces of machinery and by being in the mills with my husband. At the start, when I was doing invoices, my husband used to show me a picture of the part of the machine that the customers where ordering, what it was for, and what it did on the machinery. You now have me very interested in Toile de Jouy, but with my Northern Irish accent I can't pronounce it like you, I could sit and listen to your french pronunciation all day! Thank you for your story about the donkey, I think I heard it a long time ago, but had forgotten it, thank you for bringing it back to mind, as it has a very strong message in it. Love to your Mummy, she is an absolute darling, and fascinating with her turn of phrase for everything. Also blessings to you and all the LaLande team, you all bring peace to my heart as you go on your day to day lives in the Chateau. love xxx Doreen
What a fascinating life, Doreen 😁
Suggestion for more Sunday afternoon learning sessions: I have noticed that you have many interesting artifacts in all of the rooms throughout the chateau. Would you be able to tell us about some of the most interesting ones in your mind? You are such a wonderful researcher and storyteller that I know you would be able to tell us many fascinating stories about those artifacts... where did you find them? what significance do they hold? if they were gifts, who gave them to you and was there a story behind that? etc. etc. I know that many of the items will have belonged to Mummy and your father so maybe the story could be told by Mummy? (Wouldn't that be popular?!?). I am sure that many a Sunday afternoon could be spent exploring your many interesting artifacts. Thank you for taking the time to do this for us!
WoW, you have so many interests. Thank you for informing us on this. I had no idea what you were saying. Thank you for explaining. I have watched all your videos. Some twice, you have many interesting people in the chateau. Love it, love you!!! You still interest me so keep the videos coming!!! I am hooked!!! Thank you, thank you,thank you!!! God bless you, you sure have blessed us with your life!!! I wish I could make it to lalonde but I'm afraid I'd get there and I'd be locked there. I hope to meet you one day I would love it if that day would be at the chateau. Lots of love
This was the most interesting and well taught lesson I have had in so many, many years. So fascinating, thank you so much. Please teach us more. Would this be very simular to Tapestry creations, as well? I love the Tues., Thurs., Sunday schedule.
Thank you, I really enjoyed the little history lesson on Toile de jouy and would absolutely love to learn more about it! As I love history and home decorating, I would very much enjoy new episodes of Sundays at the Chateau. Antiques, paintings, porcelain, fabrics and lace, how to find them in thrift shops, you name it and I would love it! Thank you so much for taking the time and effort for these and all the videos. They are a true escape, thank you very much!
Stephanie -- I never wondered a bit about toile de Jouy but I watched because I watch your channel -- I appreciate your research and will forward a link to friends. I always wonder how to introduce others to your and Michael's channel -- I suspect that when I say that I am watching programs about French chateaux, friends are hiding a little snicker -- or simply dismiss it. Perhaps I can pull them in with this serious and charming history lesson! I am pretty sure that once introduced, they will be hooked too!!!
Ntakovac J I know what you mean. We so want to share the joy.
Yes I feel and think exactly the same way you do about Stephanie and Michael's vlogs. I've already told many family members and friends plus shared Vlog links but I suspect very few have actually seen them
Not only educational but your presentation skills are exceptional. So informative and interesting. Thank you Stephanie.
Just a thought - the impact of the French Revolution on La Lande? 🍰
You would have been a fantastic history teacher Stephanie because you make every bit of information feel like a wonderful story. Carry on being your optimistic, marvelous self.
Oh, Stephanie, this was so interesting! I like to think of my Sunday afternoons with you as a time for learning. Your research skills and indeed teaching abilities are excellent and you keep your "students" very engaged. I would think that from this you will inspire many of us to delve further into the world of Toile de Jouy. Thank you again.
Yes, she does have excellent research and teaching skills, on top of all her other skills. Just wonderful!
I vote for touile de jouy pt 2! I’d also love to hear more about chinoiserie - you’ve mentioned it a lot so I had to go look it up as I had no idea what it was. As it turns out those are some of the designs I am most drawn to.
You have such a pretty complexion, you could film a video that shows your favorite skin care products. You could have mummy and Marie show their favorite beauty products too :)
This is why I love special objects and beautiful things. It has nothing to do with the mass consumption of today. These old pieces are so rich in story, art, technique etc. It is just a pure JO(U)Y! Thank you Stephanie!
10 minutes to kick off. Time to stick the kettle on 😁 Good evening all
4 minutes to kick off 😁
Good to see you Charlie. Greetings from Vancouver Island Canada.
@@vintagemoss9578 Greetings from Ireland Vintage Moss. You live in my dream destination! I've always said if I ever get brave enough (and rich enough) to emigrate it would be to Vancouver Island. I've never been but I fall in love with it every time I see it on Nature or Travel documentaries.
I have a beautiful long black and cream toile full skirt with trees, palms, tropical flowers and wild animals. It a beautiful piece until you focus on the weird pattern. I wear it with a velvet tunic I bought at Neiman Marcus years ago. I’ve always loved it because it tells a story a bit like an ancient Chinese screen. I think people are all about the story which is why Booth’s Real Old Willow and Spode are still so popular. They also tell stories. Love your vlogs about French decorative arts. Louis XIV would be delighted that his idea of making France the cultural center of Europe still continues today.
Stephanie you really are an asset for French Tourism - they should make you an honorary ambassador 💐💐💕 thank you for another wonderful video.
Dearest Stephanie, This video (and all of your other videos) was an Absolute JOY to watch!!! I'm truly Soo Thankful I found your Vlog!! You strive Sooo Hard to produce as professional a video as you can. I can only imagine the hours you spend editing then having to sit for HOURS to upload it!!! You and your Mom as well as All your friends (Yes. I just ADORE Michael Pathrick and I'm Continuallly in Awe of his many talents!!!) Are indefinitely a source of worthwhile entertainment!! I also am a lover of Toile - I also go to discount stores and charity shops in search of treasures. I was redoing my bedroom at the time so I was searching for fabric. I came upon this Gorgeous toile in 4 colors which were the same 4 colors I was working with!! I'd Never seen a toilet in this many colors - the roll only had 10 yards of fabric so I bought ALL of it thinking I could find more. The name of the artist was on the side of the selvedge (?). The artist is Thomas Kincaid who is a Very famous American Artist known as "the a painter of Light!". I've looked everywhere but have not been able to find anymore. I did utilize the fabric by making lovely valances and pillows. I have a few pieces left and I woud truly be honored for you to add it to your collection. I watch and subscribe to Michael's "Doing It Ourselves!" and I look Very forwards to you and Michael joining together to create different shows and content. I promise I'll subscribe to all of them!! I'll send the fabric along soon! Please convey my Love to each of your family and friends - THANK YOU!!!
Stephanie, Michael... damn it! (Mommie Dearest, Joan Crawford voice) I wanted to see Steph in that Galliano gown in the toile room! Put that dress back on and go in that room and have a Diana Vreeland style photo done of you lying across the bed with all the toile in the background... Diana Vreeland had a red living room filled with red furniture that she called the Garden from Hell or something to that effect. Also, pretty sure her wallpaper was an 'indien' print.
It strikes me as very cinematic how Toile de Jouy takes up stories in consecutive pictures and runs it almost on a loop for viewers to scan along the scenes with their eyes and graze their minds along with the different key scenes of the storyline! Toile de Jouy appears almost a forerunner of the cinema itself.
You, my dear, are brilliant! Please save yourself and don’t burn out. This presentation was absolutely tops. Where do you get the time and energy? Wow.
I am so grateful to you that you have decided to share these stories with us. I am in love with French culture and language and its historical heritage.
Stephanie there's no reason you and Michael can't post on the same day I watch all chareau vlogs from all over and I could watch you both seven days a week I just adore you both lol❤️❤️❤️
Loved this vlog which I feel could have a part 2. Maybe I am biased as I have been sewing for decades & love I history. Stephanie you blow me away on how you are an amazing orator & the fact that you can remember so much detailed information!!! Merci et je vous aime xx.
You have such a special way of making me interested in things I never thought I’d be interested in by the engaging way in which you speak and also the depth to which you explain (without being boring). That’s such a gift!
Fascinating, informative presentation! I grew up w/ toile de jouy in my grandmother's and aunt's homes, and they were my favorites after the damasks and lampas. Like you, I think the stories evident on the fabric draw one's eye and curiosity, even if the true subject matter is unknown. Well-done.
I had forgotten how much I loved this fabric. I had so much trauma from abuse that literally a lot of memories were wiped out . It was your show that triggered it. Although I was to poor when it was very in fashion in the 90s . I will begin to look now for my own collection . You and Phillip and The La. Lande have given me back a whole part of me that had been lost . It is not just the toile but other fabrics wall papers and fashions my Aunts and mother dreamed of and bought or replicated on a thrift store estate sale budget for our modest home growing up. I am so delighted!!!!
Please explain to me, a man who loves cars and bikes, why I stopped watching a vid about my dream BMW i8, and am loving this instead ? Also, are you telling me that the French wallpapering everywhere has a historical background ? 😍
Fascinating! A part 2 would be wonderful. I have wanted for so long to make a toile skirt. This is so inspiring. Never knew color fast cottons came from India.
Beautiful and intelligent lady. Adore your Sunday chats 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
I had never heard of Toile De Jouy until I was 28-29. I needed a knitting bag and found a baby diaper bag in a blue print Toile De Jouy. I loved it and even though it was a diaper bag, it was perfect for knitting since it had so many pockets! I still have that bag after 18 years!
Hi Stephanie. I'm 1st generation Dutch in SA. My parents were teens during the 2nd world War. They built a house in SA and when I was young we wallpapered my room in yellow Toile de jouy. It was a pastoral scene with sheep and herders. I really loved it. I still have tissue paper with the same scene on it. Its beautiful 😍
And thank you to Isabelle for her thank you for D Day, as an American it means a lot.
Yes
I will take any time you can give 💜! It's always a wonderful escape for me, a cup of tea and a scone. I always come away with a new appreciation for whatever subject you talk about!💜
Thank you so much for this excellent and informative video. You have the heart of a teacher and your lessons are clear, organized and because you are enthusiastic about your subject matter, you bring the positive energy to keep us all enthralled by your delivery. I am chagrined that I did not have any knowledge about the glorious world of Toile de Jouy, but now I feel more informed. Thank you again.
Thank you for this great presentation. Would love more of this. This was so informative and interesting. It felt like a history lesson, but without the pain! lol. If it is possible to know someone is blushing by the tone of their voice, I think Michael was blushing as you modeled the toile dress! lol. As for other areas of interest, what would a worker's house be made of then and now? How would it be laid out? What did family life revolve around? Love French Provincial style but don't know anything about its history or if there are other styles as well. French wines and cuisine are famous so any history on either would be great. Their breads and cheese also. Maybe great groupings of wine, cheeses and breads! Also, how and why did France become famous for its clothing design? Loved seeing how the chateau you visited set up their garden and if there is a thinking behind garden set ups that would be fun to learn too. Have not been disappointed in any of your Sunday presentations yet, so whatever you choose, we will surely enjoy.
I so enjoyed this. My mother had two dresses in the 1960's when I was around 7-8yo. These are my favourite memories of clothes. One of these was a red Toile de Jouy. She had a red pearl necklace to wear with it, the remains of which are still among my treasures today. This fabric has been the Ultimate fabric of my life. However, until watching your vlog and this video, I had no idea that others liked this fabric or its origins. Thanks so much! LOVED the dress. I must be French. With a name like "Lynette" its possible!!!
This was an awesome history lesson! And the French fabrics are stunning!
A very comprehensive and interesting look at this iconic French fabric. Your passion for the subject is being passed on to us the viewers. My granny had a room embellished with this particular fabric and I remember being fascinated by it as a child. Thank you, Stephanie for bringing back fond memories and explaining the various patterns so beautifully. Keep up the good work and do continue on the subject.
As ever, a brilliant vlog. Absolutely ADORE these vlogs as we learn sooo much. Yes please, do more on Toille du Jouy, loved it xxxx
Thanks Stephanie, that was really interesting (I love history and even toiles show that everything is historically connected) and it's amazing to see what treasures you already owned and now realizing it. 😍 You look stunning in the Dior dress btw. Your uploading plan sounds great, I think it's important that you have time for research and other things, especially for yourself, not just for us. :) so go for it!! Thanks again!!
Your father's paintings are so beautiful. I would be very interested if you did a program just about his paintings and talking about your father and his art.
I never thought I was interested in Toile de Jouy. I was wrong! Your descriptions, enthusiasm, story telling and love for history made this vlog fascinating and now I am interested in all things Toile de Jouy! Thank you! You haven't made a vlog that I haven't loved.
I agree Carol, I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this Vlog topic , but I was so wrong . It was thoroughly captivating. I have always loved Toile de Jouy but was afraid to decorate with it, I figured I'd end up with a jumbled mess of patterns. Stephanie has now given me the courage to redecorate my guest room !
You are an absolute natural at this. You maintain interest because it is obvious how passionate you are about your topics. A lovely voice to listen to, well done!
Hi Stephanie how do you remember everything?! So informative. Keep it up!😀❤
She's probably got it written down 🥰
@Jackie Plant - I am wondering as well - not only on this particular episode, but on many where she presents historical information. You are so professional Stephanie, and so lovely, I am sure you could have a career as a television presenter!
It helps to be passionate about the subjects, she is talking about 🙂 She has a passion for these fabrics, and many of the other beautiful things in the chateau.
Stephanie, you have a gift for teaching! You could do teaching weekends at Chateau de Lalande whereby you invite folks to come for the weekend for lectures on MANY topics! You do your research well and I've learned SO much just from this video! Well done! Teresa
I love Toile de Jouy! Especially now knowing the history. It is more than just a type of fabric or wallpaper to me now. A new found appreciation of all the hard work produced by these artists, manufactures and workers. A new love of Toile de Jouy💕 Thank you Stephanie for all your research and sharing the history of this beautiful fabric!
Here I am age 59, still learning about such wonderful historical facts, and some of the most beautiful materials that I have ever seen. Thank you so much Stephanie.
And here I am 67 learning so much about history, art, antiques, flowers, friendship, human relations, skills, and how people from the two worlds can be together and enjoy life so much in times like these... Wishing to be in the company of all La Landers... Adore them !!! 💝💝💝
Yes! I would love to hear more on this wonderful fabric. You have done a GREAT job on explaining everything about Toile. Thank you❤️
In Jaipur many of these old techniques and materials are still used today. It's an incredible artform.
I love your video's, could watch them all day if I had time, also learned so much today, Thank You! 🙏⚘️
Absolutely fascinating, thank you and that dress is just gorgeous, you have made lock down so much more fun x
so glad I've found your videos in lockdown they have been a great way to fill time x
I greatly enjoyed this! ❤️ Then again, I love all of the Sundays at the Chateau videos
Stephanie, I absolutely love these Sunday vlogs. So enlightening!
This was so so interesting. Thank you for all the time you have invested researching and sharing with us.
Bravo! Encore! Love your enthusiasm and geeking out with you. 🌟
Thank you Stephanie, that was such a treat and you look and sound amazing into the bargin. Your passion is infectious. I have always been a fan of Toile de Jouy so I'm in heaven. BIG hugs to all at Lalande
This was amazing!!! I learned so much! Yes, absolutely, I would love the continuance of this!
You are amazing! So much information and never a dull moment. God bless you, Stephanie.
Sthephanie and everything that has to do with history, art, antiques and La Lande is extraordinary... She is a real talent !!!
Hi Stephanie, One of the best Sunday at the Chateau that I have watched. You make the subject of toile so interesting and as decorator I like to add a little toile somewhere in a home maybe just a powder room . It has a cozy feel to make a space homey and luxurious. Have you thought of doing a talk on trumeau mirrors ? The history of them and the paintings above the mirrors. Thank you for a great talk tonight.
This is what I like about this channel.. Stephanie always educating people about history of everything!!! So happy to have found this channel!!!
Hello from Cambridge. Thank you Stephanie, so beautifully presented and interesting as always...your videos have become my Morning China tea ritual! You have brought so much pleasure to this lockdown. Please keep them coming....xxx
Love it !! Im obsessed too now, always liked it, thank you for the info!!
That was so interesting, Stephanie, thank you.
Hi Stephanie & Micheal and the whole team at Lalande! Love Love Love your vlogs, always so inspiring! Best wishes to you all from North Wales, UK! 👍❤
Thank you so much for giving us the history ... of how these designs were produced.... and for letting us into your home and family xx
I absolutely loved this insight into Toile de Jouy. I love history anyway and you made it so interesting. Thank you!
This is all so fascinating!! I love the stories behind the beautiful prints!
Thankyou Stephanie ,for this lovely video ,really enjoyed it ,the fabrics are Divine you are such a joy, I watch every video and eagerly await for the next.
I would love to see part two of this lesson! very interesting and informative, Stephanie!
Love a Sunday evening 💖Good evening La Lande x
What magnificent research I enjoyed the history and the beautiful motifs, thank you so much!
Stephanie I vote for part 2 of this video. I love your in depth videos please bring them back. This video was so informative! I never really appreciated this design motif and now I can appreciate it much more!
Wow thank you, I love to know new curiosities like those :)
Thank you Stephanie. This video was very informative and interesting. Always love watching your vlogs.❤️
Love this video ! 💜
Loved every moment even though the subject has not surfaced on my radar , you held me captive in your spell . Thank you again Stephanie much love and respect coming your way till next time 🍀☘️🌺☘️🌸☘️🌼
Love the stories told in toile x
What a celebration of craftsmanship! I truly enjoyed that, thank you ❤️
So excited for this!!
These little morsels are divine! Thank you so so much!
I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed these Sunday informative videos.. What a great job you did on this.
Stephanie, you are so gorgeous in that dress! ❤️ And brilliant description of the fabrics. Thank you.
Thank you, I love how you explain the history of pretty things.
I was planning on listening to this while busy in the home, but was so fascinated that I just sat and watched. So interested in how each cloth pattern has a story.
Thanks Stephanie for the informative vlog. I greatly enjoy these.
Stephanie- This was such an interesting and informative subject! Thank you for your research and for bringing it to us in your usual fun and creative way!
That was so interesting, thank you for sharing. I just love watching your channel.
I love your Sunday series as much a vlogs during the week! I could listen to you talk about any topic ✨
Loved the in-depth topical vlog. Very informative! Like the idea of this format. Nice one!
I do love Toile de Jouy so much. Thank you for fascinating look into its history.
I loved this❣️now you have me going round my home examining the toile I have . Love your videos so much. Never stop!🦚
I absolutely loved learning about this subject. Thank you for all your research and for being such a charming and delightful teacher 💜
Thank you so much. Very exiting. You are so good at telling stories.
Love this Stephanie! Both educational and entertaining - it could have been a 2 part series.
Absolutely love your presentations. So informative and beneficial. Your voice and diction are lovely. Thank you for sharing your world and research.
I’m going to go through my fabric and quilt stash and look at all the patterns on my various toiles. Thank you Stephanie. I really enjoyed this video.
You , my dear, are an excellent teacher!!! Very inspiring! I love history and I love fabric and design so this was super interesting! More please!😊
Wow! I really enjoyed learning about the manufacturing process. I'm just blown away by the toile about the manufacturing process. The work and inventiveness that went into creating this fabric is amazing. I too will appreciate them all that much more for knowing the original process that brought them into the world.