Initiated and curated by Clout/SA, the upholstery fabric collection was brought to life utilising featured Portal patterns, and manufactured in Johannesburg by textile manufacturers, The Mill Fabrics.
The collection, which showcases patterns designed by four of South Africa’s rising creative voices, demonstrates the infinite potential of the country’s creative expression. It is rich with storytelling, and the pattern designs carry culture, heritage, and the voices of the communities that inspire them.
As we looked to the designers’ growing pattern archive on Portal 2.0, we reimagined a select few in new colourways and fabrics.
This first of many chapters of the Thread Collection not only affirms the versatility of the patterns, it also continues Clout/SA’s mission of creating passive income opportunities for our designer partners, further empowering them as collaborators in our journey towards building a globally resonant South African design industry.
Meet the Designers Behind the patterns
Spamandla Mdunyelwa
A Nando’s Hot Young Designer (HYD) 2018 finalist whose Xhosa-inspired patterns have already found their way into restaurants and even Nando’s London HQ. Rooted in traditional Xhosa attire and cultural objects, her designs balance the geometry of the past with fresh interpretations for today’s spaces.
Lesego Maloka (Pone Creatives)
Lesego transforms heritage into vibrant jacquard weaves. Her bold African-inspired motifs, which have featured in major South African design shows invoke joy and depth, perfect for creating spaces that are both contemporary and deeply African.
Thandazani Nofingxana (Chap Studios)
A former Nando’s HYD finalist, Thandazani is an award-winning fashion and textile designer committed to sustainability and local textile revival. His patterns draw on home, heritage, and the nuances of South African culture. Having sold over 700 licensed patterns to Nando’s already, his work is both tried, tested, and loved!
Xolela Madlanga
A multidisciplinary designer whose emotive patterns are shaped by Xhosa and Ndebele storytelling traditions. With lines, curves, and geometric forms inspired by the natural environment of South Africa’s storied Eastern Cape, her work translates feelings into visual textures that invite reflection and connection.
Quality Design
These fabrics aren’t just durable (with over 80,000 Martindale rubs, they’re built for busy spaces), they’re designed with flame- and stain-resistant finishes and carry a proudly South African heritage. Each metre weaves community, sustainability, and storytelling into the heart of interiors.
Heads Up!
The ordering process for The Thread Collection differs slightly from standard sourcing through Portal 2.0. Fabrics are made to order with a minimum of 50 linear metres per design, and after your quote requests goes through Portal 2.0, Clout/SA will provide a full quotation including costs, packaging, and local delivery. Once approved, orders take 4–6 weeks to manufacture, with delivery aligned to logistics schedules.
The spaces we create are more than walls and furniture — they are places of gathering, connection, and belonging; and we hope you’ll enjoy this collection as much as we enjoyed putting it together.
