Alterknit Knit Kids

In case you’re not on the ball (of wool, in this case!), knitting has turned into a rather chic hobby – and it seems to be sweeping the world. Top models have been spotted knitting backstage at the runway shows, celebrities such as Julia Roberts and Dakota Fanning knit between takes and the novel, The Friday Night Knitting Club, is going to be turned into a film produced and starring none other than real-life knitter, Julia Roberts.


In Hong Kong, intrepid entrepreneur and keen knitter Jane Fidler, has launched the Eco-Chic label, Alterknit, with a gorgeous range for children’s wear and home accessories that is available now online and in selected stores.


Jane believes passionately in Fair Trade, women’s rights and environmental protection, and her uniquely beautiful range features fashion-forward children’s knit design kits and boho-chic cushion cover kits for the home. She is the creative design force behind Alterknit, and has travelled the world extensively spending months at a time in under-developed countries.




“I travelled off the beaten track and discovered traditional craftswomen and artisans whose talent was simply astonishing. But I was shocked at the way they were being treated by their employers. I resolved then and there to do something to honour them and their skills in a way that was ethically responsible. Being an avid knitter myself, and with a background in textile design, the step to creating Alterknit was a short one.  I am thrilled to be realising my ambition today whilst helping other women in challenging situations,” she told me.


Alterknit Knit Kits contain everything you need to make one of Jane’s lovely creations: wool, pattern, a pair of rosewood knitting needles and buttons and sew-in label marked “My Time with Love”, since time is one of our most precious commodities — and the greatest gift of all.

The true genius of Alterknit  is that it is  all 100% New Zealand Merino wool,  hand-dyed in Nepal by local village women using various natural plant extracts. The result is a palette of nature’s soft pastel hues complimented by strong bold earthy browns, rich reds and indigo blues. By collaborating with these women (registered as Fair Trade enterprises) Alterknit  plays a strong part in global change for the better.

Getting knitting now and you may just get more than a few Christmas gifts sorted!


Available online at www.alterknitkits.com and in selected Hong Kong stores.