Introducing the LANX x Highland 2000 hat collection, where two modern British brands come together to create something truly special. Proudly made in England, these hats blend our rugged style with Highland 2000's renowned knitting expertise. Crafted from the finest materials and adorned with LANX heel tab, they’re designed to keep you warm on any adventure.
Highland 2000 is ran by two brothers Stuart and Mark who took over their family business in (you guessed it) the year 2000. The family had moved up from Guildford in the 60’s to set up shop in the thriving knitting industry in Nottingham - namely, in Eastwood - where the brothers started to work in the 80’s.
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Over that time their aim has been to produce high quality knitwear using a combination of modern machinery to make traditional knitted hats, combining the new and the old. What sets Highland 2000 apart is their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. In a world where mass production often takes precedence, Highland 2000 stands firm in their belief that quality should never be compromised. Each hat, scarf, and sweater is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every stitch is perfect and every piece is made to last.
The brand’s use of British wool is not just a nod to tradition, but a testament to their dedication to sustainability and supporting local industry. By sourcing their wool from local farms, Highland 2000 not only ensures the highest quality materials but also contributes to the preservation of the British countryside and the livelihoods of its farmers. They are licensees of the British Wool Marketing Board to ensure that their materials are sustainably sourced in the UK and ultimately traceable.
So, what have we made?
Who knew there were so many choices when it came to shapes and sizes of a simple beanie, nevermind talking about what materials, what colours to pick and where they are sourced!
We chose to make 2 slightly different styles of hat, we have the first ‘Downham’, a very classic 7 gage ribbed watchcap. When I think of a hat this is what I’m picturing. Ears covered, dipped back and with a beautiful knit pattern throughout the piece. We have made our Downham hat in 2 different materials, 100% British Wool and 100% Merino Wool. Both materials were sourced by Shepley Yarns in Saddleworth and the British Wool is traceable thanks to the work that the British Wool Marketing Board do to bridge the gap between farmers and suppliers.
The second style we have created is the ‘Bowland’, both a very typical fisherman style - slightly shorter - but heavier in its weight. For these hats we have used material called Donegal Tweed, which is the name of both the name and the style of this specific aran weight yarn. Made in Ireland its subtly heathered hues are punctuated by literal ‘flecks’ of colour. The fibers in Donegal Tweed are dyed first (“fleece dyed” or “dyed in the wool”), and only then are they blended together to create that telltale composite heathered color. Next come the actual “tweed,” or solid flecks of color. The trick here is to sufficiently incorporate the tweed so its flecks stay put in the yarn (and fabric) without blending so much that they lose their “pop” quality. The mills in County Donegal are among the most skilled at this technique, hence the yarn is named after them and Donegal Tweed is spun in Donegal.
All in all we have created 10 different hats for you to choose from, we hope there is something that catches your eye ahead of the lovely Lancastrian weather incoming.
A short history of knitting in Nottingham
Nottingham's association with knitting dates back to the 16th century when the knitting frame, also known as the stocking frame, was invented by William Lee in 1589. Lee, a reverend from Calverton, a village near Nottingham, is credited with creating the world’s first mechanical knitting machine. This invention revolutionized the production of knitted goods, allowing for much faster production compared to hand-knitting. The stocking frame laid the groundwork for the modern textile industry and positioned Nottingham as a key player in the burgeoning field of knitted fabrics.
During the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, Nottingham became a hub for the textile and lace industries. The city’s strategic location, access to raw materials, and a growing workforce made it an ideal place for textile manufacturing. The knitting industry in Nottingham evolved rapidly during this period, with many innovations in machinery and production techniques emerging from the city.
By the 19th century, Nottingham was home to a thriving knitting industry, with numerous factories producing a wide range of knitted goods, including stockings, gloves, and other apparel. The city’s factories were known for their innovative use of machinery, which continued to evolve, making production faster and more efficient. This industrial prowess helped Nottingham gain an international reputation as a leader in textile production.
While the mass production of textiles has largely moved overseas, Nottingham still has a vibrant knitting community, with small businesses, artisans, and designers continuing the city’s long-standing tradition of producing high-quality knitted goods. The city’s history in knitting has also inspired a renewed interest in sustainable and locally-produced textiles, reflecting a broader global trend towards valuing craftsmanship and ethical production.
Nottingham’s history in knitting is a testament to the city’s role in shaping the textile industry, both in the UK and globally. The innovations that emerged from Nottingham laid the foundation for modern textile production and continue to influence the industry today.
As with all things LANX, these hats are made in limited quantities to ensure the highest quality. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of this unique collaboration - get ‘em worn!
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