Kate Jenkins Knits Horse Salon for Hermès in Summer Project
How a Crochet Artist Became Hermès’ Go-To Knitter
British crochet artist Kate Jenkins spent her summer hand-knitting a detailed horse salon for Hermès after receiving an unexpected email from the luxury house. The project, which required her to drop all other commitments, involved creating a collection of handcrafted objects using traditional knitting techniques. Based in the UK, Jenkins is known for her intricate textile art that blurs the line between craft and contemporary art. Her work for Hermès formed part of a special installation presented during the season, showcasing the brand’s ongoing collaboration with skilled artisans. The commission highlights how luxury fashion houses increasingly turn to niche craft experts to realize bespoke, concept-driven pieces.
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What Does This Mean for the Future of Craft in Luxury?
The collaboration signals a growing trend among high-end brands to invest in artisanal expertise as a way to differentiate their offerings in a crowded market. By partnering with artists like Jenkins, Hermès reinforces its commitment to craftsmanship while introducing fresh, unexpected narratives into its collections. Such projects also elevate the status of textile arts, bringing them into spaces traditionally dominated by painting or sculpture. Jenkins believes this opens doors for other makers to be seen not just as crafters, but as legitimate contributors to luxury storytelling. As consumer interest in authenticity and handmade quality grows, more brands may follow suit, seeking out specialists who can translate heritage techniques into modern, desirable forms.
How did Kate Jenkins get contacted by Hermès? Jenkins received an email from Hermès proposing a project to hand-knit objects for a horse salon, which prompted her to immediately prioritize the commission over other work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of items did Jenkins create for the horse salon? She crafted a range of detailed, hand-knitted accessories including miniature saddles, stables, and equestrian-themed objects, all made using traditional crochet techniques.
Why did Hermès choose a crochet artist instead of using industrial methods? Hermès selected Jenkins for her ability to produce unique, handmade pieces with artistic depth and tactile quality that machines cannot replicate, aligning with the brand’s artisanal values.