Starting a yarn project.
Every project begins somewhere. For some people that's a finished specification. For others it's a fleece, a fibre, or simply an idea they want to explore.
Wherever you're starting, we're happy to help.
Every project is different
There isn't a standard route through manufacturing.
Some projects need little more than spinning. Others involve fibre sourcing, yarn development, dyeing, finishing and packaging before they're complete.
That's why every project begins with a conversation. Understanding what you're trying to achieve allows us to recommend the most appropriate route through the process.
Do I need a specification?
No.
Some clients come to us with complete technical specifications, ready for manufacture.
Others know what they'd like the finished yarn to achieve but haven't yet decided on fibre, count or construction.
Both approaches are equally valid. We can work from an established specification, or help develop one with you.
I have fibre. What next?
If you're supplying your own fibre, we'll discuss where it is in the process and what needs to happen before spinning.
That might involve sorting and grading, scouring, topmaking or simply preparing it for manufacture.
If you're not sure, don't worry. We'll help you work out the next step.
Can you source fibre?
Yes.
We regularly work with trusted brokers and suppliers to source wool for commercial projects.
If your project requires organic fibre, a particular breed, or a specific type of preparation, we'll help identify the most suitable option before manufacturing begins.
Organic and non-organic manufacturing
We manufacture both.
Garthenor operates the UK's only GOTS-certified organic spinning mill, allowing us to manufacture certified organic yarns where required.
We also manufacture non-organic yarns for customers who don't require certification. We'll advise on the most appropriate route for your project.
How much yarn can you manufacture?
Our minimum production quantity is generally 50 kg of clean wool.
Projects vary considerably in size, from relatively small production runs through to larger commercial manufacture.
If you're unsure whether your project is suitable, we'd be happy to discuss it.
Why isn't there a price list?
Because no two projects are the same.
The fibre, preparation, yarn construction, quantity, finishing requirements and packaging all influence the work involved.
Rather than asking projects to fit a standard package, we prepare a quotation based on the manufacturing route your yarn requires.
Every project is different, but most follow a similar path.
At any stage, we can join the project where it makes the most sense.
Develop
Understand the yarn, the objective and the specification.
Source
Arrange fibre and any specialist processing required.
Manufacture
Spin, finish and prepare the yarn for delivery.
A few more common questions.
Can you work from an existing yarn?
Yes. If you're looking to recreate or develop an existing yarn, we'll discuss its construction and the most appropriate manufacturing route.
Can I supply my own wool?
Yes. We'll advise on whether any preparation is needed before manufacturing begins.
Can you produce samples?
Where appropriate, yes. Sampling can be arranged before committing to a production run.
Can you arrange dyeing?
Yes. We work with trusted dyehouses and can coordinate dyeing at the most appropriate stage of the process.
What forms can yarn be supplied in?
Cones, skeins, balls and other specialist put-ups are all available depending on the project.
Can you label and package the finished product?
Yes. We can work with your existing labels or help develop new ones, and package the finished yarn to suit its next destination.