Kenyan wool at Kenana Knitters

At Kenana Knitters, the wool does not come from a single breed of sheep. It blends fleeces from three breeds raised in Kenya: Merino, Hampshire Down and Dorper.

This variety creates natural wool full of character, with subtle differences in shade, feel and texture from one piece to the next.

Wool from Kenyan farms

Kenana Knitters sources its wool from farms around Njoro, Kenya. The fleeces are collected locally before being worked by a network of spinners and knitters.

The sheep are reared without mulesing. By working with wool from several breeds, Kenana Knitters makes use of locally available resources while supporting farmers and families in the region.

From fibre to yarn: a handmade process

The wool is spun by hand and then entrusted to the craftswomen of Kenana Knitters. Each cushion, throw, soft toy or rug is then knitted and assembled by hand in the cooperative's workshops.

The ecru, grey and brown shades may be the natural colours of undyed wool. Depending on the design, other colours are created with plant-based dyes or selected dyes free from azo colourants and cadmium.

Small differences in stitches, colour or texture are therefore not flaws: they reflect the handmade process and give each creation its own character.

Kenana Knitters: craftsmanship that supports women

Founded in 1998 near Njoro, Kenana Knitters enables women in rural communities to earn a living from their spinning, knitting and sewing skills.

Today, the organisation works with several hundred knitters and a large network of spinners. It provides paid, flexible work that fits around family life and local circumstances.

Behind each creation are Kenyan materials, skills passed down through generations and an identifiable craftswoman. To learn more, discover the craftsmanship of the women at Kenana Knitters.

Wool creations by Kenana Knitters

At Studio Matongé, Kenana Knitters wool takes the form of throws, cushions, soft toys, comforters and animal rugs. Textured stitches, natural colours and varied finishes bring warmth and character to children's rooms and throughout the home.

Discover our selection of pure wool creations, hand-spun and hand-knitted in Kenya.