AUTHENTICITY
Invest in
Cultural Legacy
Authentic Cowichan Sweaters, A Symbol of Cultural Heritage
What it Means
The Mark of Genuine Cowichan Sweaters
Having an authentic Cowichan sweater means owning a wearable piece of art that represents the rich cultural heritage, meticulous craftsmanship, and deep connection to the land and traditions of the Coast Salish First Nations people.
Spot the difference
Avoid Fakes and Cultural Appropriation
Distinguishing genuine Cowichan sweaters from corporate cultural appropriations, such as the imitations spread since the 1950s, is crucial for avoiding profit-driven cultural exploitation.
01.
Source and Certification
Purchase from reputable sellers or directly from Indigenous artisans or organizations supporting First Nations communities. Some Cowichan sweaters may come with certification or labels indicating their authenticity and supporting ethical production practices.
02.
Quality of Craftsmanship
Authentic Cowichan sweaters exhibit high-quality craftsmanship. Examine the overall construction, stitching, and finishing. Look for even tension in the knitting, well-executed pattern transitions, and secure seams.
03.
Natural Wool
Authentic Cowichan sweaters are typically made from locally sourced, undyed, and unprocessed wool, known for its warmth and durability. Check for the presence of natural fibers and look for variations in color or texture indicating the use of natural wool.
04.
Traditional Designs & Motifs
Authentic Cowichan sweaters feature distinctive and culturally significant designs inspired by nature, animals, totems, or geometric patterns. Research the traditional motifs associated with Cowichan sweaters to identify if they align with the design of the sweater in question.
05.
Handcrafted Knitting
Cowichan sweaters are traditionally hand-knit using intricate techniques passed down through generations. Look for evidence of handcrafted details, such as irregular stitches or slight variations, as a sign of authenticity.
Sweaters
FAQs
Can you explain the price point and structure?
Indigenous knitters of Cowichan sweaters purchase their wool at retail prices, which can cost upwards of $100 per sweater. It can take up to 40 hours to knit a single sweater. Traditionally, knitters have been paid between $120-$200 per sweater by local tourist shops, which translates to $1-3/hr above cost. Knit was created to rectify this undercompensation. Knitters receive the majority of proceeds from each sweater sale ($500). The remaining funds are used to operate the Knit website, staff, and services through the Victoria Native Friendship Centre.
Are all of the knitters indigenous?
Yes, all of our knitters are Indigenous artisans dedicated to preserving their cultural heritage through their craft.
Do the sweaters have a warranty?
Every Knit sweater comes with a lifetime guarantee. We offer free repairs for eligible damages, including fraying, wear due to use, and seam integrity issues. Post-purchase staining and accidental damage are not covered. For more details, see our Returns and Exchanges policy or email knit.support@vnfc.ca to start the repair process.