A Return to Australian Craftsmanship
Written & photographed by Holly Draffin
Australia grows some of the finest Merino wool in the world, yet only a small amount is still processed and manufactured into garments here at home.
Over the years, much of Australia’s textile and clothing manufacturing industry has moved offshore. Mills have closed, factories have shut down and skilled trades have become increasingly rare. The people still making products locally from Australian wool are part of a much smaller industry than they once were.
That is why the Will Beanie means so much to us.
From the beginning, we wanted to create something simple, timeless and well made. A winter staple that reflected Ranger Outdoor’s focus on natural fibres, thoughtful design and Australian manufacturing.
That search led us to Hatch and Make in Lilydale.
Hatch and Make is a knitwear design studio with full manufacturing capability under one roof. From development and knitting through to finishing, everything is done locally with a strong focus on ethical production, regenerative systems and natural materials.
Behind the machines are people deeply invested in keeping Australian manufacturing alive. Dave Giles-Kaye, Kirri-Mae Sampson and Nigel Whelan are part of a highly skilled industry still choosing to make products carefully and close to home.
The Will Beanie is made from 100% Australian Merino wool and constructed using natural fibres, threads and trims, making it fully natural and biodegradable.
Soft, breathable and warm, it is designed for everyday winter wear. A classic rib knit with a snug fit and minimal branding. No unnecessary extras, just a well made beanie designed to last for years.
We kept the release intentionally small, producing only 20 pieces in each colour: Autumn Gum, Mountain Maple, Slate, Lake Blue and Fern.
There is something meaningful about knowing where a product came from, who made it and the materials behind it. Especially at a time when so many products are mass produced and disconnected from the people involved in making them.
Australia has grown wool for generations, but fewer and fewer products are now being designed and made here from it. Supporting the people still carrying these skills forward, and creating products with care and longevity in mind, feels more important now than ever.
The Will Beanie was designed to be one of those products. Something natural, well made and long lasting that can be worn through years of winters and passed down for years to come.
You can find Hatch and Make here or follow them on Instagram at @hatchandmake.
Briony & Penne of Ranger Outdoor with Dave from Hatch and Make.
