Hania Hand Knits
New York, New York
After moving to New York City from West Germany as a single mother and professional ballerina, Anya Cole developed her knitting practice into the incredibly creative business HANIA New York. Founded in 2012 she now produces two separate collections of high-quality, ethically handmade, luxury knitwear.
One collection is produced by the world-renowned mill Todd & Duncan, located on the banks of Lochleven in Kinross, Scotland. This collection is machine knit, using the industry’s best cashmere in sophisticated color palettes. Todd & Duncan was founded in 1867 in Scotland and produces for the top designers in the world including Dior, Hermès and Lainey Keogh.
The other collection Anya produces is one-of-a-kind pieces designed and hand-knit in New York City. Originally starting with one knitter, HANIA New York now employs a network of over one hundred female knitters throughout the city. These knitters are skilled artisans working at the highest level of craftsmanship to create Anya’s innovative and complex designs. Using specially twisted yarn from esteemed Italian and Scottish cashmere mills, the resulting knitwear is plush and supple.
The knits from both Scotland and New York are contemporary yet timeless, versatile yet unmistakable. Taking inspiration from the founder’s background as a classically trained ballet dancer, HANIA collections celebrate the ease of movement, creativity, and individuality. The brand prides itself on the product and the team this unique, artistic alchemy has brought together.