The name Rowan was inspired by the beautiful shrubs lining the banks of the river Holme in Yorkshire, an area deeply entwined in textile heritage and tradition. Established in 1978, Rowan initially specialised in kits.

Later, the team moved to a traditional former textile mill nearby and they are still based in the same area today. The founders Stephen Sheard and Simon Cockin wanted to produce knitting yarns, which were both quality and perfect for the design trends of the time, showcasing an array of natural fibres in a paintbox colour palette. They placed the utmost value on providing yarn shades which could be translated into timeless design, and these values are still at the core of Rowan today. 

Rowan designs represent a full range, from heritage and timeless pieces to modern and fashion reflective knitwear, all with an emphasis on the best fibres available.