A year in wool
In 2023, Davaar & Co achieved a milestone with the opening of its farm store, located in the old shearer’s quarters on the family farm. Founder Kate Macdonald says it has offered a unique chance to interact with customers and harness the magic of the multi-generational family farm.
“I think it’s very special for people to be welcomed onto our century-old family farm and try on a beautiful woollen jersey that has been grown right here and entirely made in New Zealand. It’s a wonderful story, and I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to tell it.”
Kate’s appreciation for wool has continued to grow over this past year.
“I love seeing customers so happy with their woollen jersey and the smile on their face when they purchase their Davaar & Co piece.”
With winter approaching, Kate reiterates the wonders of wool, citing its sustainability.
“Wool is naturally grown, not made. Each year, a sheep grows a new fleece, and all that is required to grow its fleece is water, sunshine, air, and grass.”
“It’s a staple item that isn’t going to go out of fashion and will last decades to come.”
To get the most out of your garment, she offers a couple of care tips.
Store your jersey in the wardrobe to maintain its shape. Hand wash with wool-approved detergent, then lay flat to dry. If you’re sensitive to wool, consider wearing a long-sleeve top underneath. Store in a cotton dust bag, included with every Davaar & Co jersey purchase, to protect from pesky moths.
Producing garments from a less common crossbreed sheep’s wool means Kate gets a few questions about the product.
“Many people ask us if our wool is merino, which it’s not. Here at Davaar Station in Southland, our average rainfall in a year is 1100mls – a lot. Our winters are typically cold and wet, which our crossbred sheep can withstand. The sheep we farm are a Romney Perendale crossbreed. They are hardy animals and don’t seem to get the same foot problems that Merino sheep can get if it is wet underfoot.”
Their Romney/Perendale sheep produce a beautiful, coarser wool that is perfect for cosy knitwear like the Davaar & Co collection. And they’re thriving on Davaar Station.