In memory of Inga-Lill Westman, 1931–2026

Photo of Inga-Lill: Falukuriren

On January 16, 2026, the textile designer Inga-Lill Westman passed away at the age of 94. With her passing, Swedish design has lost a creative and independent voice, an artist who worked with textile, colour and form for more than seven decades.

Inga-Lill Westman was born in 1931 and showed an early interest in creative work. She first trained through ceramic practice in 1949 and later continued with weaving studies at Norrbacka Institute’s vocational school in Stockholm. In 1952 she started her own weaving studio, a courageous step for a young designer at the time.

Between 1952 and 1957 she worked in the family business, Westmans Textilateljé, before continuing with her own practice. Her work moved across many different techniques and expressions, including hand printed textiles, collage, fashion, appliqué, monotypes and soft art. Curiosity and a willingness to experiment with materials and form remained central throughout her life.

For Almedahls, Inga-Lill Westman designed the patterns Snapp and Pricktyg during 1958–1959. These designs reflect the graphic clarity and playful character that defined much of Swedish textile design during that period.

During her long career she participated in numerous exhibitions, both solo and group exhibitions. Her work was shown at venues ranging from local exhibitions in Dalarna to institutions such as Nordiska museet and Liljevalchs in Stockholm, as well as internationally, including Lord & Taylor in New York.

At Almedahls, her designs live on as part of our extensive textile archive. The patterns created during the strong design period after the war remain an important part of Swedish design heritage and continue to inspire new generations.

We remember Inga-Lill Westman with great respect and gratitude, and with appreciation for the patterns and creative work that continue to live on.

All of us at Almedahls