From sheep to knitting needles: Why visitors are drawn to Sandnes Garn

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Behind the factory outlet in Sandnes, the production facilities are literally right next door. Here, visitors can not only buy yarn and patterns, but also gain an insight into how the yarn is made, from raw material to finished ball.

“What makes us unique is that people can actually come here and see that this is produced right here,” says shop manager Lone Wedtfald Sørensen.

For many, that is precisely what makes the visit special: the proximity to the production, the history within the walls and the feeling of experiencing something authentic.

A story that began in 1888

Sandnes Garn was founded in 1888, and the company has been an integral part of Sandnes for generations. Over the years, production has evolved in line with the market. Previously, the company produced both industrial yarn and weaving yarn, but eventually decided to focus exclusively on hand-knitting yarn.

This has been crucial to its development. Around 12–15 years ago, the company took a clear strategic step: if they were to continue manufacturing in Norway, they had to specialise and become even stronger at what they did best.

At the same time, the brand’s image was also refreshed. Knitting went from being something many associated with tradition and “grandmothers” to becoming part of the fashion scene and the world of trends. Sandnes Garn focused on a clearer visual profile, collaborations with high-profile designers and a stronger presence on social media.

It has paid off. Today, Sandnes Garn is a household name far beyond Norway’s borders.

Norwegian quality and natural fibres

An important part of Sandnes Garn’s identity is its connection to quality, nature and Norwegian production. The company focuses on natural fibres and places great emphasis on high-quality raw materials, design and product development.

Although not all raw materials come from Norway, the Norwegian roots are important. Norwegian wool has gained a new status in recent years, and Sandnes Garn finds that both Norwegian and international customers are keen on authenticity and genuineness.

Foreign visitors in particular are curious about all things Norwegian. Many associate Norway with purity, nature, quality and responsibility. Values that also influence how the products are perceived.

The company also highlights that animal welfare and responsible choices are important to them. They emphasise that they work consciously to ensure quality throughout the value chain and to make the best possible choices.

From raw material to finished yarn

Many visitors find it fascinating to gain an insight into the actual process behind the yarn. At the factory in Sandnes, the yarn is spun, twisted, dyed and reeled up into finished 50-gram balls.

It is a craft that combines experience, technology and precision. At the same time, there are significant variations in raw materials and qualities, which affect how the yarn is processed and what it can be used for.

The company produces around 14 million balls a year, which are sent to customers all over the world.

This says something about the scale of the operation, but also about how strong the brand has become.

More than just yarn: design, trends and inspiration

Sandnes Garn doesn’t just sell yarn. They also sell inspiration.

The company has its own design department that develops patterns and collections based on current trends, colours and styles. This enables them to adapt quickly when new trends emerge, and to remain relevant to both loyal knitters and new target groups.

The combination of yarn, design, patterns and a clear identity is a key part of their success. It is not just about the product itself, but about the whole package.

The history, the style, the quality and the experience of something authentic are what make Sandnes Garn stand out.

A popular stop for visitors

The shop in Sandnes is already well frequented, and the summer months are peak season. It attracts both Norwegian customers and visitors from countries including Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, the USA, Canada and Spain.

Some are dedicated knitters who are already familiar with the brand. Others are curious travellers looking to experience something local and authentic.

German customers are an important group, not least because Sandnes Garn has a strong presence in the German market. Once they are in the region, many want to visit the place where the yarn is actually produced.

Many visitors also drop by because they want something that feels genuinely Norwegian, whether it’s classic yarns, patterns for Norwegian garments, or simply the experience of seeing the production up close.

Behind the scenes in Sandnes

For those who want to see more than just the shop, it is also possible to experience parts of the production process on a guided tour. This gives visitors a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at an active Norwegian manufacturing company.

It is precisely this that makes the visit different from a standard shopping experience. Here, you encounter the history, the craftsmanship and the people behind the products.

In this way, Sandnes Garn has also become part of the region’s role as a host. They welcome guests who wish to learn more about Norwegian textile traditions, industry and design, whilst experiencing something that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

A place that means something

At a time when many are seeking authenticity, a sense of connection and handcrafted quality, Sandnes Garn strikes a chord. They embody both tradition and innovation: a historic industrial enterprise that has managed to remain relevant in a new era.

For some, a visit is about finding the perfect yarn. For others, it’s about understanding where it comes from. And for an increasing number of people, it is precisely this combination of history, quality, design and experience that makes Sandnes Garn a natural stop in the region.