The Ninevites is a studio that tells stories of South African culture & unheard voices of age-old traditions in a modern context. Their textiles are meticulously handcrafted by artisans in the Cape Town, South Africa & Lima, Peru using 100% South African-grown mohair & Peruvian sheep wool. Empowered by their handicraft, these artisans hand spin & dye the raw fibre using techniques to ensure exceptional quality & durability.
Founded by Nkuli Mlangeni-Berg, the Ninevites is known for creating beautiful things with inventive designs in made-to-be-touched textures. “I have been working with the ladies at Karoo Looms for eight years, and they put so much love and care into every piece they make. There are so many hands that go into making these pieces, from the dyeing to the spinning and weaving, and you can see it in the finish and attention to detail,” explains Nkuli.
Heritage preservation is something I felt very strongly about since the beginning of The Ninevites. I’m creative, but the business side of things has never been a strength for me – I celebrate every time I make a sale! What I enjoy is the social side of heritage preservation work.
All the Ninevites products are meticulously crafted in South Africa, Peru and Europe using 100% natural fibres, which are sustainable and responsibly sourced. Sustainability is a key aspect of The Ninevites’ products, and this collection underscores Nkuli’s commitment to using responsibly sourced and sustainable materials.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
- Tourvest Craft Prize 2017
- Most Beautiful Object in South Africa 2017
- Monocle's "Best New Talent" award in 2021
- Named by the New York Times among 12 creatives of the African Diaspora who are at the center of a global shifts
- Listed on the Top 20 reasons to visit South Africa by Wallpaper in 2010