Based in Bangkok, the Thai Textile Society was founded in 2004 when Kathleen Forence Johnson, wife of former U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Darryl Johnson, invited scholars, collectors, and other textile enthusiasts to establish a society dedicated to the study, appreciation, and preservation of the textile arts in the kingdom and the region. An avid weaver and textile collector, Mrs. Johnson envisioned the Society as a forum for textile lovers to exchange ideas and share information and resources.

The Society's founding was celebrated with a memorable evening hosted by M.L. Poomchai Chumbala at his elegant Thai-style home. M.L. Poomchai designed the Society’s logo, a weaving shuttle, which he generously donated for the Society's use.

Since its inaugural meeting in February 2004, the Society has organized regular lectures, trips, and other programs such as its popular Collector’s Corner series.

The Society benefits from the support of The Siam Society and James H.W. Thompson Foundation. It has also worked closely with the Foundation on programs such as the August 2005 Jim Thompson textile symposium.

Membership in the Thai Textile Society has grown steadily and, under the leadership of Acting President Dr. Sathirakorn Pongpanich, the Society continues to host regular educational programs designed to promote appreciation of Asia’s rich textile heritage.