How it started
Zaini, the brand, launched as a result of an impossibility to find a comfy, colourful and stylish enough beanie hat. Scottish ski instructor, Miranda Harper, turned to making her own whilst in the resort of Haute Nendaz, Switzerland in 2010. No beanie was baggy or bright enough for her style, so she made her own to fit her fashion needs on the slopes. The trend was quick to catch on and suddenly everyone wanted a Zaini Hat.
Designs by demand
On returning to the UK, and being based in a small village in the highlands of Scotland, the weather permits people to wear beanies all year round and once friends, colleagues and family saw her hats they all wanted one. So she got back to her crochet hook and put together more designs including – Hot pink and Blue, Neon Green and Purple and Neon Orange and Purple. Zaini only use 100% super soft acrylic yarn, which ensures a non-itch, cashmere feel and is durable to outdoor weather.
Granny to the rescue
With the orders coming in thick and fast Miranda needed a helping hand – that helping hand came from her grandmother. Crocheting is a skill that takes patience and commitment so to keep her on track with her first few orders Granny came to save the day. Loaded with balls of Neon Orange, Purple, Blue, Yellow and Neon Green yarn they set up a production line and set to making as many hats as they could. And that’s when Zaini was launched. A company dedicated to bringing people new, colourful and unique hats. All designed in Scotland and all handmade with attention to detail in every way.
Zainis for everyone
Our beanies and bobble hats are loved by outdoor types, a favourite with outdoor swimmers, skiers, rowers and rugby players alike. Now, more than 10 years on, we’ve created over 200 designs for adults and children, introduced new products, got customers worldwide, and have had our hats on the heads of some very famous people (check out some of our photos and see who you can spot).
Due to demand, we can no longer personally crochet each of our beanies and bobble hats in Scotland, but are proud to have partnered with a socially forward, family-run company in China that maintains our commitment to quality. We are now based in Gloucestershire, on the edge of the beautiful Cotswolds, the perfect place to provide inspiration for more unique styles.
