An exciting new fabric line bringing a piece of Lakeland’s unique charm is set to hit the world stage. The line, named “Lakeland Blues,” features eighteen coordinating cotton quilting fabrics, produced by Vancouver-based fabric company Poppie Cotton. It will soon be available in boutique fabric stores worldwide. The collection was designed by local resident Samantha Walker, who has a longstanding career in design spans fabric, craft products, digital cutting dies, and home decor.
Walker, who moved to Lakeland five years ago to support her husband’s job change, stepped away from design temporarily to help her family settle. Yet, the vibrant natural beauty of her new Lakeland surroundings sparked her creativity. Unlike the dry western climate she came from, Lakeland’s environment allowed for a flourishing garden filled with blooming hydrangeas—one of her inspirations for the collection.
Walker also noted the community’s enthusiastic pride in local schools, which use a recognizable blue color scheme. “You see our blue colors being worn everywhere with pride,” she shared. When Poppie Cotton approached her to design a new line, she knew hydrangeas needed a prominent role. Initially, she explored a multicolored palette, but when Poppie Cotton requested a blue-focused design, Walker saw the opportunity to create something truly unique for Lakeland, embracing a palette of blues.
The resulting “Lakeland Blues” collection is a celebration of local flora and community spirit, featuring roses, hydrangeas, wild poppies, pine needles, and more—all in coordinating blue shades for a cohesive, mix-and-match appeal. Originally called “Lakeland Garden,” the line took on its current name to reflect the color shift and pay homage to Lakeland’s proximity to Memphis, the historic home of blues music.
With its versatile design and community-inspired theme, “Lakeland Blues” is set to become a cherished addition to Lakeland’s history.
You can learn more about Lakeland Blues by visiting their website.
