Factory Friday: Wonky Woolies

In our ongoing Factory Friday series, we are delving into the stories behind some of the Scottish Manufacturers that you can find on Make Works.

This week we've interviewed Alison at Wonky Woolies; who produce custom hand-knitted hats from their workshop in Glasgow.

What was the first hat that you made?

My friend asked me if I could make a hat similar to one he'd seen, it was block colours of red, blue and yellow. I'd not made a hat before, at that point it was all about dresses, scarves and cushion covers so I asked mum to teach me. He loved his new hat, though lent it to a friend in a band which subsequently got trapped inside a dressing up box never to be seen again! 

Where can we see your work out in the world?

We send hats to customer all over the UK & overseas. It's always exciting to think about where the hats are going to on their adventures from the workshop!

Frightened Rabbit asked us to make them custom design hats as Grant from the band is a fan, they sold out super fast and we may explore new designs this year. We've also been making hats for United Arrows in Japan for 3 years. It would be amazing to go to Japan to see them in store as it still doesn't seem real! 

Is there a typical customer that comes to Wonky Woolies?

We appeal to a variety of customers who have a multitude of reasons for choosing us. Some are looking for a hat themselves, some would like us to create custom design products on a large scale and others are looking for wardrobe items to use for promotional purposes but what they all have in common is a love for quality handmade products. 

What's it like running a manufacturing business from the very centre of Glasgow?

First and foremost we find that being in the city centre is convenient for our team & our customers. Our location is set within a vibrant business community where each day we see, hear & share news of exciting projects taking place. 

It feels like people are increasingly interested in commissioning locally-made pieces – particularly when it comes to clothing and textiles. Have you found this to be the case? And how d'you think it will continue to change in the coming years? 

Yes, it's fantastic that people have a passion for sourcing locally made products, we’ve certainly noticed an increase nationwide since starting the business in 2013. Social media is really helping to extend the reach of our brand which is encouraging global buyers specifically looking for Scottish made products. Scottish manufacturers have a responsibility to remain consistent with quality and continue to be innovative to ensure future growth within this industry.

You can find out more and contact Wonky Woolies through their Make Works profile here