It seems like years ago . . . . almost everybody could knit. Knitting was a part of everyday life: to keep the fishermen dry, to keep berry-pickers warm, to keep children clothed and smiling. It is hard to remember a time visiting my grandmother during fall and winter when she didn’t have a project on the go. We would be in the warm basement, woodfire roaring, watching TV and her needles methodically clicking along.
Through countless generations, the secret of wool was widely known: its natural warmth, durability and sustainability.
I then feel like things changed. Babies were better off wearing something new from the store. Kids and teens no longer valued the hours that someone had spent making an item for them, opting for something more in style and purchased with a large logo across the front. Not only were knits not worn but knitting was then not passed along either. A generation of patterns, traditions, techniques was lost.
When I finally picked up my first set of needles to learn to knit I felt compelled to create something beautiful. I made a dishcloth. It was misshapen, it had holes, it was not lovely, I’m not even sure I used it, but I had made it with my hands and I knew I would continue to make. As my skill increased I felt the calm that knitting provides to so many, and I could easily remember the methodical rhythm of my grandmother’s needles clicking along and feel the same through my own hands.
Today, the secret of wool is known to knitters of all stripes continuing the tradition of investing considerable time and care to knit items by hand for the warmth and comfort of others. The qualities of wool remain as strong as ever. However, in the noise and hustle of modern society, these simple truths are easily drowned out. I want to make it heard. I want to create items that go back to function, fashion, quality and tradition, relying on the qualities of wool and other natural fibers and the strengths of the craft itself.
Ultimately, my mission is to share with you a little secret of our own: the wonderful feeling of purchasing an item that is classic, timeless, will garner as many ohs and ahs as something from a big box store but knowing it was made just for your little one or you. Knowing that every stitch has a bit of its own life and place in the world, from where I was sitting when it was created to the intention it took to bring it to life. There simply isn't anything like it - I hope you will feel the same.
Watch over the coming months as I take the time to introduce you to our spring/summer collection, curated with care and detail from colours to fibers to patterns. Then on March 23rd I will launch limited quantities of each item for purchase. You don't want to miss out on the stories these knits hold and of course how to own one for yourself.
- Barbara
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