Factory Friday: Esk Valley Knitwear

Esk Valley Knitwear is a small family owned knitwear brand based in Annan, Dumfries and Galloway. They source their fibres from across Scotland and Italy, and manufacture garments in house. As well as manufacturing garments for other brands, ESK also has their own collection called ESK Cashmere.

In an interview that Melanie Rickey (Blogger Fashion Editor at Large) did with Esk Valley Knitwear they said this about their practice:

"The Scottish tradition with fine textiles is engrained with centuries of experience. It's in our DNA, and this spirit permeates the products of our labour."

When we went to visit ESK Valley Knitwear we were delighted to explore the factory, watching garments being made for international brands such as Margaret Howell and Monocle. The one thing that really stood out in this operation was quality of production. From the care taken by the design team in sourcing yarns that were specifically fit for the purpose of each garment; through to the technical expertise of the Shima machines which were integrated throughout the design process. 

 You can see Esk Valley Knitwears' Make Works listing here

Alongside Esk, Scotland is a treasure trove of knitwear factories, weavers and independent design labels for scarves.  

Here are a few that we just have to mention:

Johnstons of Elgin 

Johnstons of Elgin have been producing knitwear since 1797. 

You can check out their full range of scarves here

Briggs and Cole 

A collection of scarves designed by artists and designers across Glasgow.

No Line No Wave exhibition

Contributors: Fiona Jardine, Kevin Hutchenson, Goodd, Laurence Figgis, Gabriella Marcella Di Tano, Fraser Sim, Derek Welsh, Mark Vernon, Graphical House, Pamela Flanegan, Ian Balch and Tony Swain

Home/Away 

Weave designer Angharad McLaren and graphical designer Emlyn Firth have collaborated with Scottish textile manufacturer Johnstons of Elgin to create a set of two merino wool scarves inspired by the home and away support of sporting events. 

These can be purchased on the Scotland can make it website

Lochcarron 

Lochcarron of Scotland is a weaving mill based in the Scottish Borderlands which manufactures finished garments ranging from traditional highland dress through to catwalk fashion.

You can check out their full range here

Lucy Donnell 

Lucy Donnell is a knitwear designer producing a range of scarves, gloves and home accessories. These are designed in Glasgow, and manufactured by a family-run workshop in the famous town of Hawick.

You can check out the rest of her range here 

Desperate to buy one? Pop down to the Glasgow School of Art shop where Lucys' products are stocked as part of the GSA collection.

Begg & Co 

Begg & Co has been a knitwear manufacturer since 1866 based in Paisley. In 2013 they launched their own collection 'Begg and Co' 

Araminta Campbell

Araminta makes bespoke woven and embroidered textiles.

You can find out more on her Make Works listing here