Family company

For generations, the story of our weaving mill has been shaped by strong textile expertise, uncompromising design, and a deep respect for nature.

Today, Lapuan Kankurit weaves timeless textiles for everyday life, combining design, responsible production, and continuous development. Our family business has grown into an international company, recognised for its wool and linen products and as a pioneer in jacquard textiles.

Jaana and Esko Hjelt
Fourth-generation weavers

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In 1917, Juho Annala – the maternal great-grandfather of Esko Hjelt – founded a felt boot factory in Lapua, Finland. This marked the beginning of the Lapuan Kankurit story.

In the 1930s, Esko’s grandfather and his mother’s brothers acquired the first weaving machines, laying the foundation for industrial weaving within the family.

In 1973, Esko’s parents, Juha and Liisa Hjelt, established their own weaving mill and named it Lapuan Kankurit.

In 1999, Esko and Jaana Hjelt took over the company, focusing strongly on design, brand development, and international expansion.

In 2025, the fifth generation – Vilma, Eero and Elias Hjelt – joined the company and continues the story into a new era.