Monkstone Knitwear
Knitwear Brand
Monkstone Knitwear was the most important part of Monkstone goods is that they are ever changing, and we want you to feel part of the story. The design process is linked with the farming methods of the principles of permaculture. Design methods have been adapted to work with wool in a way that is sustainable and natural, enhancing the biodiversity of the natural source. Low impact and made locally. The yarns are all sourced from our farm , we use local shearers, experienced spinners and a great local factory to create the final garments. We also have a wonderful group of hand knitters who help to spread the joy of working with such natural yarns.
What is so amazing about working with Welsh wool? Our wool is Pembrokeshire is on the door step. It localisation which is of massive provenance for us as well as being 100% traceable back to farm. Currently Welsh wool’s are used for crafts and cottage industries, although valid and integral, it is limiting and the Welsh wool supply chain is diminishing. With today’s advances in fabric technology, we believe there is scope to develop our Welsh Traditional breed wool into innovative materials suitable for use in the fashion and outdoor apparel market in the UK and beyond.
If any/ what have been your challenges with working with Welsh wool and a local way of working? We have trusted mills, however we are under the amount that will offer more affordable price per kilo in the supply chain, Monkstone knitwear is a way we can ensure we can diversify the farm. When we work with other farmers we use the supply chain different to ensure a fair price.
What gauge of Knitwear do you sell? i.e fine gauge 10-12gg or more chunky knits such as 7-5gg? Within our projects we work with all the gauges above based on the micron.
What weaving looms do you use and how many do you have? We work closely with BWM and also have hand knitting machines x 4
Do you finish onsite? If not, is it convenient or what would be your ideal situation? We do hand finishing as well as factory finishing.
Do you find a lot of push back in the industry in terms of working with British wool?............it’s all down to to price! The customer with the right information gets it. The brands need a better price.
Do you find that customers are becoming more interested in British wool? Locality and story is a real detail for us. We try hard to not only work with the customers but also the local farmers and stakeholders within the supply chain.
On a scale of 1- 10 (1 being the lowest and 10 excellent) how much do you think your business has improved in the below areas as a result of good working practices and environmental standards?
Waste Production (off-cuts, production) - 9
Plastic Pollution (packaging) - 8
Water Wastage (dyeing and finishing) - 8
Energy Consumption (shipping, machinery etc) - 7
Do you have any hero farmers or people in your supply chain you would like to highlight?
Gillian Osband, Corgi Socks LTD, Curlew Weavers, Bristol Weaving Mill, Richard Reed and Kate Humble