Exploring the Growing World of Crochet Designers in Africa

Crochet, a centuries-old craft, has seen a renaissance in many parts of the world, and Africa is no exception. Across the continent, an increasing number of talented crochet designers are blending traditional techniques with modern trends, creating vibrant, innovative pieces that reflect the rich cultural heritage of their countries while embracing global fashion sensibilities. These designers are not just keeping the craft alive—they are redefining it, infusing it with new pattern techniques and intention.

Celebrating Craftsmanship & Sustainability 

In many African cultures, textile arts such as weaving, knitting, and crochet are deeply embedded in daily life. Traditional patterns and techniques have been passed down through generations, often telling stories of heritage, identity, and community. Today’s African crochet designers are finding creative ways to merge these time-honored traditions with contemporary styles, producing everything from stunning garments and accessories to home décor items. Designers in Nigeria and Ghana  have made a name for their artistic styles from Bloke by Faith Oluwajimi, Qreenade by Aduma, Reeyah Swim and Jay Crochets. 

With its use of natural fibers, low-waste techniques, and emphasis on craftsmanship, crochet is not just a creative form of self-expression but also a sustainable way to approach fashion. At the heart of eco-friendly crochet fashion is the use of natural, biodegradable fibers. Unlike synthetic textiles such as polyester or nylon, which are derived from petrochemicals and can take hundreds of years to decompose, crochet garments are often made from renewable materials like cotton, linen, hemp, bamboo, and wool. These fibers are more sustainable because they can be grown without harming the environment, are biodegradable, and have a smaller carbon footprint than their synthetic counterparts.

For example, designers may use organic cotton, which is cultivated without harmful pesticides or fertilizers, making it better for both the environment and the people involved in its production. Similarly, plant-based fibers like bamboo or hemp are fast-growing crops that require fewer resources like water and chemicals, reducing their environmental impact.

Crochet is a handmade craft that requires minimal machinery, unlike mass-produced garments made with industrial processes. This results in a lower energy consumption per garment. Furthermore, crochet techniques naturally lend themselves to a zero-waste approach. Since crochet involves working with yarn in a controlled manner, designers can create garments and accessories that use up all or nearly all of the material, leaving little to no waste. 

Moreover, any leftover yarn from a crochet project can easily be repurposed or upcycled into smaller items like accessories, blankets, or even decorative pieces, reducing textile waste.

International Impact & Culture

African crochet designers are also making waves on the global stage. Designer Mumbi Cline, from Kenya, is a creative that’s championing sustainability by incorporating recycled cotton and organic fibers into their crochet creations. Odegheri Fashion, a Nigerian designer who also incorporates crochet into her bold fashion collections. By using local fabrics and materials, they both add distinct African styles to their crochet designs, making them not only beautiful, but functional clothing for hot temperature environments.

The ability to combine African aesthetics with modern crochet techniques also creates a unique niche in the international fashion market. As social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest continue to showcase African crochet art, these designers have the opportunity to reach a global audience, spreading awareness of the continent's rich craftsmanship.

Promoting Economic Empowerment

Beyond the creative aspect, crochet design in Africa is playing a significant role in economic empowerment. Many designers are teaching crochet skills to local artisans, creating job opportunities, and helping women, in particular, build their own businesses. Crochet workshops and collaborative projects are spreading across the continent, allowing artisans to connect with others while gaining the skills needed to thrive in both the local and global markets.

By supporting these talented creators, we can celebrate the rich cultural tapestry they represent while encouraging original cloth making industries.

One of the key tenets of eco-friendly fashion is “slow fashion”—the opposite of the fast fashion model that encourages mass production and overconsumption. Crochet fashion fits perfectly into this philosophy. Crochet garments are often made to last, crafted with care and attention to detail, meaning they are less likely to be discarded after a few wears. The durability of crochet items, particularly when made with high-quality fibers, encourages a more thoughtful approach to clothing consumption.

Crochet is often produced by independent artisans or small businesses, many of whom prioritize ethical practices and fair compensation for their labor. By supporting these local creators, consumers are helping to sustain traditional crafts while also promoting ethical labor standards. Many crochet designers, particularly in Africa and other regions, create jobs for marginalized communities, often empowering women through skill development and economic independence. Crochet wear is a considerable luxury fashion item despite the price value amongst designers which is defined by the yarn material and the laborious task of perfecting patterns to fit bodies on a spectrum. 

Additionally, many crochet designers and makers are embracing fair trade practices, ensuring that workers are paid fairly and work in safe conditions. This is a stark contrast to the exploitative labor practices often seen in fast fashion factories, where workers are underpaid and overworked in poor conditions.