On the way to Eldoret we stopped at Kenana Knitters. Unfortunately we were there on a Saturday when the workshop is closed, but the Manager, Susan, met us and the founder, Patricia, came to meet us. I was able to interview both of them for The Just Craft, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Susan and Patricia showing me one of their handmade spinning wheels made with a repurposed bicycle wheel.
They use locally produced wool for their yarn, and dye it with native plants! As you can imagine, I was totally geeked out.
They don’t allow photos of their products, but if you go to their website you will see what they make. It’s a wonderful workshop offering gainful employment and empowering programs for the local women.
I finished my first hat in Kenyan wool. What do you think about the tassel? Two tassels? No tassel? Pompom? I like how the tassel looks like a thistle and I am calling it my Thistle Tassel Hat. It’s a tad big (I have a big head) so it needs to be taken down by a couple of stitches. But it’s simple and a novice knitter could accomplish it easily, I think. I might add another tassel.
headknits 
You are having so much fun and I’m so glad you’re sharing your trip with us:)
The spinning wheel with the bike tire is genius. I love seeing thing repurposed.
Your hat is lovely:) I read somewhere that things in odd numbers are more pleasing to the eye. That said I vote for 3 tassels:)
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I would now like to make my own spinning wheel with a bike wheel, and I don’t even spin. The yarn they create is beautiful. I really like your hat, and I think three tassles would be fun.
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Three Tassle Thistle Hat is a tongue twister.
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That’s fun to say
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Have you time to comment on the attributes of the Kenyan wool? Any particular breed of sheep? If all of us who’d like to be there could be, I think it would be a huge crowd!
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I’m pretty sure this yarn I’m knitting is merino. They do process merino in Nairobi but most of it is for export. It is hand spun so thick and thin. It has great loft and is super soft.
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Thank you! It looks gorgeous, and if it’s merino, probably feels wonderful, too.
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I think the one thistle tassle looks good!
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Love these posts, Alissa! Maybe on of the tassels should be attached to a braid?
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I love your tassel hat! If you do multiple tassels, I vote for three, on different length cords 🙂
What a neat place to visit, and their yarn really is beautiful 🙂 You are having such a wonderful adventure!
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