Katie Allen

Katie Allen is a Shepherd and Maker; custodian of the land and advocate for her flock of native breed sheep. Based in the Cotswolds, she works to connect people with the reality that our clothes come from farming, just like food. Her handcrafted, 100% traceable knitwear demonstrates how British wool can be grown regeneratively, processed simply and result in clothing that is both beautiful and good to wear. 

Katie says: ‘There is nothing like assuring the quality of your raw material than growing it yourself and as the farmer, designer and garment producer for my knitwear, I take responsibility for every stage of production. From getting my hands dirty in the field, to fully fashioning each garment on my knitting machine, it is my commitment to a wholesome farmed environment, compassion for my flock and the care and attention to my artisanal production which drives me to work responsibly all along my supply chain.’

She creates all her garments using the traditional knitting process of fully fashioning -  where each piece of the garment is knitted separately and then sewn together by hand. Using a hand powered knitting machine means no electricity is used in their construction and she employs a complex technique called intarsia for her larger block patterns. Each piece is distinctive and authentic, with bold patterns, eye-catching colour and original character, requiring careful hand finishing. 

‘Every product envelops the journey of my shepherding life. From delivering beautiful lambs and watching their fleeces grow throughout the season, to shearing time and handing over my wool clip to the mill. When I run the threads of yarn through my hands on the knitting machine, knowing I've spent the year caring for the animals that produced it, I feel a profound connection to my work. ‘

Instagram: @loopyewes