Jules Haines, Founder of Haines Collection
interviewed by A LITTLE FIND.

How would you describe your brand and mission?

The Haines Collection is a platform for the resale of designer fabric and wallpaper offcuts that would otherwise most likely be sent to landfill. Our mission is to reduce waste in the interiors industry.  
 
All of our fabrics are surplus from projects/manufacture, handpicked by me, and available online for around half the retail price. They are small volume and generally available only once, so when it's gone, it's gone! 

What was your motivation?

I hate waste and always have, I know first hand that there is so much waste in the industry having worked in it for over 5 years. I wanted to create a solution that was easier than putting it in the bin. 

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

Working on it only part-time. I started it alongside a day job and had a 1 and 3 year old. Luckily I was able to stop the day job but I’m still a mum, so that juggle is often hard and you feel like you aren’t 100% focussed on either roles!

What are you most proud of?

Where the business is today, and how much it has grown in the past 7 months from when I finished the day job and could properly focus on it. So far we have saved over 2,420 metres of fabric from landfill which is so brilliant.

What projects are you working on at the moment?

Can you believe but I’m working on Christmas! I want to do a small selection of Christmas gifts that are a more environmentally friendly option than buying new. I’m getting samples made up at the moment - I’m most excited about our bath caps made out of our leftover fabric lined with plastic from old packaging!

Could you pick one small change for everyone to make to live more sustainably?

Stop using single-use plastic. Plastic is a useful product but if we only use it right. 

What book is top of your “must-read” list?

I have to say I’m not a massive reader (don’t tell my book club!) I’m more of a listener so I love audiobooks and podcasts. My favourite is ‘The Age of Plastic’ podcast, it’s brilliant and I look forward to every episode.

What is your LITTLE FIND?

Reusable silicone bags, perfect for kids snacks and a great alternative to small zip lock bags.

Quick fire questions...

Perfect Living: tent, castle or cottage?
Castle, in a warm country please. I’m not up for the heating bills.

Next on your bucket list?
Bali - one of my best mates lives there and I dream most weeks of visiting her!

Where do you save money?
Anywhere I can if I need anything I’m on Facebook Marketplace or Ebay before I look at the shops. 

Where do you splurge?
Clothes - buy less but higher quality items and look after them to make them last. When you have spent more on something you instinctively want to look after them better anyway.

Your favourite object in your house?
Probably our bed, it’s my favourite place to have some peace and quiet and I reupholstered the headboard which I’m quite proud of!

Vintage, recycled or brand new?
Vintage, I just love anything old with a history.

Tech addict or technophobe?
Addict I’m afraid, I run my whole business from my phone so it’s a lifesaver to have it in my pocket - and as long as you know when to not reach for it!

Perfect treat? 
I have a weakness for pastries and white bread!