Meet masters of the textile craft: some of Lapuan Kankurit’s very own weaving family, who make every thread count.
“Over the years, my work has definitely had an impact on the clothes I wear in everyday life: nowadays I pay close attention to the quality of fabrics. At the weaving mill, we inspect fabrics so carefully that any irregularities in clothing becomes immediately noticeable – you might call it an occupational hazard! Before Lapuan Kankurit, I would never even have noticed such things.
To me, working with Lapuan Kankurit means, beyond all, responsibility. I’m grateful to be surrounded by colleagues who care about their work as much as I do.”
Natalia – Weaving operator
“To me, Lapuan Kankurit represents a reliable workplace where I can grow and focus on doing my job well. The community is warm and supportive, and there is a strong appreciation for skill and quality craftsmanship.
The variety in my work is what I enjoy the most. It’s interesting to see how the different stages connect and how the final product comes together. What especially motivates me is seeing the concrete results of my work and being able to feel proud of the outcome.”
Alena – Weaving operator
“The best part of my job, besides my amazing coworkers, is the variety. One day I might be packing online orders, the next stocking products on shelves, and another preparing a large sea container shipment for export. Occasionally, I also help in production, for example in the warping department.
Over the years, we’ve introduced many new designs and patterns. It’s always exciting to see which ones become customer favourites.”
Hanna – Logistics Operator
“My favourite part of this job is how diverse it is – I get to do all kinds of things. Closest to my heart is definitely problem-solving, and everything that entails. I find working with machines, troubleshooting issues, and resolving them the most rewarding and interesting part of my work. While I mainly focus on maintenance and installing machinery, I sometimes step in to do some weaving. It’s a great way to spot issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
I’ve been with Lapuan Kankurit for nearly 11 years. I’ve learned so much and it’s been a privilege to play a part in the company’s growth. Besides my kids, I consider my job one of the biggest highlights of my life.”
Timo – Techical Manager
“I’ve always enjoyed working with my
hands: there’s something very rewarding
about it. It’s great to see the work of your
own hands and be a part of creating
something special. Each piece of work has
meaning, both to the material, and
to myself. My job combines precision
with the joy of handwork.”
Aija – Finishing Operator
“I still remember how it felt to take a leap
into the new and unknown: to become
a seamstress and take up an internship at
Lapuan Kankurit. I was so nervous! Today
I’m so proud of how much I have learned
over the years. I know I’m a valued part
of the community, and that means a lot.
I love my job, and especially the people
I work with.”
Jasmina – Seamstress
” I’ve always liked working with machines,
and there are more than enough of those
here! Each weaving and finishing machine
has a personality of its own, full of moving
parts and small adjustments. The work
is its own reward: when you get the
machines working smoothly, you can
feel it. And that’s the best feeling.”
Juha-Matti – Weaving Technician
“It’s been incredibly fulfilling to be
able to grow and evolve in my job over
the years, from seamstress to weaver,
from inspection and knotting to warping.
Each step has taught me something new.
Warping requires attentiveness and
expertise: it’s the most crucial building
block of a fabric, like the foundation
of a house. Without it, nothing stays
intact. I’m familiar with the entire
production chain of a fabric, so I
know how vitally important this
first step of weaving really is.”
Olesya – Weaving Operator
“My over 20 years of work at Lapuan
Kankurit have given me so much. It’s
great to be able to really apply your
skillset. Together with the design team,
I transform designs into a weavable form.
Choosing the right yarn is an important
part of design work, and procuring wool
fibres straight from local farms has added a
new dimension to my work. It’s a privilege
to be doing something where tradition
and present time walk hand in hand,
and where each fabric tells a story.”
Elina – Jacquard Weave Coordinator
“My work includes fabric inspection, project packing, ironing, rolling fabric, sewing, preparing shipments, washing, the final stage of the loom frame, wool teasing and brushing, as well as cutting lengths. That’s pretty much everything I do,” she laughs.
“I enjoy my job because it’s varied and keeps me active. It’s in my nature to be curious about everything and want to learn new things constantly. I’ve really enjoyed working at Lapuan Kankurit, and my coworkers are great.”
Merja – Finishing Operator
Photos @ Henri Vogt