The studio’s founder, Sarah, is deeply passionate about the art of knitting, whether executed by hand or machine. Her creative process begins with the meticulous crafting of hand-knit samples, which she then translates into digital instructions for knitting machines, enabling them to replicate the intricate qualities of hand-knit stitches.

The studio’s designs draw inspiration from the natural landscapes of Aotearoa, with patterns reflecting various locations throughout the motu and colour names paying homage to the region’s native fauna. The collection is crafted from luxurious camel down fibre, spun locally in Aotearoa. Renowned for its warmth, lightness, and resilience, this high-quality fibre epitomises the elegance and functionality central to Knit Shepherd’s creations.

Maunga Taranaki with its magestic conical form inspired the textile pattern for this collection. The stepped diagonal lines suggesting the shape of the mountain with the central striped column eluding to the magma core. 

These products all use a knit stitch pattern that is inspired by Kā Pākihi Whakatekateka o Waitaha (Canterbury plains). In particular it is the view from the sky of the chequered paddocks, all with slightly different colours.

Starting as a hand-knit slip stitch sample the design is translated into a digitally knit textile. 

Raukawa (Cook Straight) is the body of water that separates the north and south islands of Aotearoa. 

Punakaiki is a town on the West Coast of the South Island where amazing rock formations are found, that resemble piles of pancakes. The form of these layered rocks inspired this garter-stitch pattern.