About John Mahoney

John Mahoney’s love of textiles began at a young age under his mother’s sewing table, where he made collages using scraps of fabric and glue. He later majored in fine arts at Amherst College and moved to New York City, where he produced and exhibited patterned, decorative, and colorful artworks in many media. A trip to Japan in 1992 ignited a continuing passion for Japanese culture and inspired him to cross the boundaries between art, craft, and design. 

In 2003 he established John Mahoney Designs Inc, which specialized in handmade wallpapers, fabrics, and rugs. He later expanded into home accessories with a collection of soft goods that were printed and sewn in USA factories. Disappointed with fabric wastage and stitch quality, however, John decided to teach himself pattern-making and sewing. 

John’s reverence for vintage Japanese textiles, his layered approach to personal fashion, and his habit of re-purposing garments led him to create modern versions of traditional Japanese clothing. Every Nippon West article is unique and represents Johns abiding love of textiles, Japan, and cross-culturalism.