At Swans Island Company, we believe in keeping it simple.

Pure fibers, time-honored processes, and a commitment to fine craftsmanship are at the heart of everything we do.
Since 1992, we have produced the finest possible textiles and yarns, and we are proud to carry on the tradition of fine American craftsmanship here on the Maine coast.

Tradition

All Swans Island Company goods begin with natural fibers, sourced to the highest possible standard.

Much of our fiber comes from local New England farms, domestic, family-run farms that have been caring for their flocks for generations. Our organic merino, sourced from South America, has been certified organic by the Global Organic Textile Standard, the world’s leading processing standard for textiles made from organic fibers. Fleece from those farms is custom spun for us by New England mills on trusty vintage machinery. From there, every skein of Swans Island yarn – whether destined for our hand looms, our partners at domestic knitting mills, or your knitting needles – is dyed by hand in our Northport dye house. This allows us to create uniquely saturated colorways that can’t be achieved in large-scale dye lots.

Many of our yarns are dyed using naturally derived pigments like cochineal, indigo, and madder root. Others are skein-dyed with low-impact dyes to achieve our singular depth of color while also reducing our water and energy usage and offering unique qualities to the discerning knitter, like machine washability. We make each dye bath with our own custom recipes, expertly working the fibers in order to achieve our signature rich, variegated tones.

Production

Swans Island Co. Ocean Limited Edition Throws - Closeup of the loom with the #9 The Sunrise Throw in process.

In an era of automation and disposable goods, our Northport studios are unique in their commitment to traditional craft. You’ll find vintage industrial looms operated by our skilled weaving team, large, steaming dye vats where skeins of yarn are dyed by hand, and the precise work of hand-monogramming and blanket repair. It’s not the fastest way to make anything, but it’s honest, and made with a deep respect for process.

Our handwoven signature blankets and throws are inspired by the rich history of textile manufacturing in New England. In 1996, our handwoven blankets won a Smithsonian Blue Ribbon for Craft, and though our company has grown, we remain committed to the principle of upholding American craft traditions. In addition to our own production studios, we are proud to collaborate with other domestic mills in the production of our knit apparel and powerloomed blanket lines. Our production partners are experts in their field, family-run businesses whose high standards for quality and sustainability match our own.

DESIGN

Our home in Maine is our biggest design inspiration. Clean lines, vibrant hues, and the inherent beauty of raw natural materials form the foundation of all of our work, from hand-knitting patterns to our signature blankets. Swans Island Company goods are an investment in a tradition and a way of life, modern heirlooms designed to be as timeless as the tides.