Why Buy Wool?
Knitnaks is proud to claim that it is one of a growing number of cottage industries and can honestly say that work is from fleece to finished product. This includes the use of a spinning wheel and lots of hand knitting! Whilst enjoying the variety of natural colours and textures that British breeds of sheep offer us, we also enjoy using plant dyes to create some wild and evocative hues which would suit the modern look and compliment the rustic. By us changing our habits and buying this home-grown fibre, we can change the industries decline and can make a difference.
By purchasing from us you are giving your support for, and showing your belief in the fibre of Britain, and at the same time helping to secure the livelihoods of Britains’ remaining hill farmers. The result is a glorious array of products to choose from, each will bring a feeling of quality and craftsmanship to your home, and we look forward to receiving your order!
Knitnaks would also like to say to all who have purchased from us... Thank you!
Our Philosophy
Being able to spin my own hand spun wool has enabled me to work ethically and organically, respecting and helping to promote the preservation of our planet. I feel proud that my skills can go towards making products which are as good as they look, supporting those of us who are wanting to shop guilt free.
My grandmother inspired me greatly in the way that she would look around her to see what she could recycle or remake and how she could just be down right thrifty! I am sure the second world war influenced her, and as I grew up her creativity intrigued me and so her legacy of making something out of nothing was passed on. I take my inspiration also from the environment around me, and ascribe to utilising what it has to offer. I look for colours and patterns that gently blend together as well as those producing hard natural contrasts that are seen as the brightness of the sunlight adjusts and the seasons change.
I feel privileged yet humbled by the interest people show towards my craft, therefore I seek to pass my facination on, and to share my colourful ideas with others as they develop. I am forever learning, sometimes due to my own trial and error but also from others who inspire me along the way.
Photo taken for the Petersfield Post by Louise Adams.
Knitnaks Caroline, spinning at the Milland Rural Fair.