Made in Italy and Sustainability
Discover Why Artisan Knitwear is a More Responsible Choice
Made in Italy knitwear boasts a long artisanal tradition deeply rooted in the territory, making each creation unique. Unlike weaving, artisanal knitting is inherently more sustainable as it minimizes material waste: the parts of the piece are not cut and sewn but are created directly in their final form. This process, combined with the focus on using high-quality, responsibly sourced materials, local production, and a short and traceable supply chain, makes Made in Italy knitwear a more conscious and environmentally friendly choice compared to outsourced and mass production.
The History of Knitwear in Italy
In 1589, William Lee invented the first hand-knitting machine in England, but it wasn't until the 19th century that these tools were perfected and adopted on a larger scale in Italy, leading to an increase in knit fabric production. The industrial revolution brought automation to knitting processes, making production more efficient while preserving craftsmanship in small family-run businesses that are now the heart of Made in Italy.
During the 20th century, especially in the post-war period, Italian knitwear became a symbol of elegance and refinement internationally. With the introduction of circular knitting machines, Italian manufacturers began producing pieces on a larger scale without compromising artisanal quality. This balance between tradition and innovation has made Italy a world leader in knitwear.
Italian Knitwear Manufacturers Today
Italy is famous for its specialized textile districts, each of which has developed unique skills over the centuries. These districts are still points of excellence for Made in Italy artisanal knitwear:
IL BIELLESE
Biella, located in Piedmont, is renowned for the production of fine wool. Some of the best wools in the world are processed here, used to create high-quality yarns. It is the only district in Europe where the entire textile supply chain has been preserved, making it a virtuous example of a textile district where production distances are significantly shortened.
CARPI
Carpi, in Emilia Romagna, is known as one of Italy's main centers for knitwear and accessory production. With a long tradition in the textile sector, the Carpi district is synonymous with excellence in knitting.
PRATO
Prato, in Tuscany, is a key hub for weaving and the production of regenerated fabrics. Prato is known for its recycling and recovery of textile materials, a practice that makes the district an example of sustainability on the international stage.
IL VENETO
Veneto is known for the production of high-end knitwear, thanks to companies that combine innovation and tradition, ensuring a product of the highest quality.
Today, Italian knitwear manufacturers continue to be global leaders, keeping the artisanal tradition alive while integrating innovative solutions for sustainability. According to data from CNA (Confederazione Nazionale dell’Artigianato e della Piccola e Media Impresa), at the end of 2021, 9,612 artisanal businesses operated in Italy in the knitwear sector, mainly concentrated in northern Italy, in regions like Lombardy, Veneto, and Emilia Romagna.These businesses represent 7.5% of the total Italian artisanal companies in the clothing sector and employ about 35,000 workers.
The Ethics and Sustainability of Local Production
One of the most important aspects of Made in Italy knitwear is local production, which not only ensures high-quality standards but also promotes a more ethical and transparent production model. In a world increasingly dominated by fast fashion, which often does not guarantee decent working conditions and generates huge amounts of waste, Italian artisanal knitwear stands out for its responsible approach.
According to the 2021 Fashion Transparency Index, large chains show a low level of transparency regarding working conditions in their supply chains. In contrast, Italian companies, especially artisanal ones, place a greater emphasis on product traceability, ensuring that each piece is made in a way that respects people and the environment.
Our Model to Support Made in Italy
Since the beginning, we have made it our mission to bridge the gap between customers and small and medium Italian knitwear manufacturers, to support their traditions and offer pieces made from 100% natural and responsible materials with a reduced environmental impact. We want their traditional skills and craftsmanship to be passed down, making these trades attractive to younger generations and bringing benefit and innovation to the Italian manufacturing ecosystem. We ensure that production takes place in an ethical and responsible environment. All steps, from raw material to finished knitwear, are visible on each product page to guarantee complete transparency of processes and involve you in choosing a more local, artisanal, and sustainable fashion.
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