At Afrika Project, we always say that the true value of a garment lies not only in how it looks but in how it’s made. Throughout the process of creating our collection inspired by César Manrique, we were fortunate to discover three projects that redefine what it means to work with natural fibers: El Robledal de la Santa, Malabrigo Yarn, and Wooldreamers. Today, we want to share their stories with you because behind every thread lies something deeper: passion, sustainability, and respect for craftsmanship.

I want to extract harmony from the Earth to unite it with my feeling for art. The only extraction that should be allowed." 

– César Manrique

El Robledal de la Santa: Angora Goats and the Purity of Mohair

Nestled in the hills of Cáceres, Spain, El Robledal de la Santa is a place where time seems to stand still. David and Jackson don’t just raise Angora goats; they nurture an ecosystem that reflects the balance between nature and craftsmanship. Their mohair, dyed by hand in small batches, captures the essence of this place. It’s soft, shiny, and carries a sense of serenity that is impossible to replicate.

We used their Silky Mohair to embroider details on the 85 sweater, adding touches that reflect the care and dedication that define this project. Every stitch with this fiber celebrates its natural beauty and the deep connection we have with those who pour their heart into their work.

Malabrigo Yarn: Colors That Tell Stories

From Uruguay, Malabrigo Yarn dyes its fibers with the same passion as an artist painting on canvas. Their Pima cotton, cultivated in Peru, is a material that blends softness and strength, making it ideal for lightweight and lively garments. But what truly makes Malabrigo unique is its relationship with color. Every skein is hand-dyed, meaning no two are exactly alike. Each hue seems to breathe, vibrate, and tell its own story.

With this cotton, we created Banana Split, a playful romper that celebrates summer with its freshness and vitality. This project reminds us that even the most traditional techniques can shine with new perspectives when guided by hands committed to excellence.

Wooldreamers: Manchego Wool with a Taste of Cheese

If there’s one project that uniquely combines tradition and creativity, it’s Wooldreamers. Their Manchelopi wool, wound like a Manchego cheese, is more than just yarn—it’s an ode to the Manchega sheep and the culture of Castilla-La Mancha. This design is no coincidence but a tribute to the connection between wool and the region’s heritage.

With Manchelopi, we crafted two key pieces in our collection: the 85 and Hotel Fénix sweaters. The texture and authenticity of this wool allowed us to explore designs that balance the traditional with the contemporary, honoring the rich heritage that Wooldreamers preserves.

A Thread That Connects Traditions and People

El Robledal de la Santa, Malabrigo Yarn, and Wooldreamers are more than suppliers; they are projects that inspire us and teach us to value what we wear. Every fiber they choose to work with reflects a special connection to the earth, a dedication to craftsmanship that transcends generations, and a commitment to sustainability.

These stories remind us that what we wear is not just a product; it’s a conscious choice, a way to support what is made with care and love for authenticity.

*We want to thank “Malabrigo” and “Wooldreamers for the images used in this article. Their dedication to craftsmanship and quality inspires us.

To lear more about their work, visit their official websites: Malabrigo, Wooldreamers, El robledal de la Santa