G'day ....
Ngaire Takano is an advocate for traceable craftsmanship, regenerative systems, and environmental integrity. Born in England and raised in Australia, her curiosity about how food, textiles, and everyday materials are made led to an early connection with local artisans and producers (farmers included).
In the 1980s, she became actively involved in organic, fair-trade, and community-based production—long before such practices were widely recognised. Working on organic and biodynamic farms, Ngaire gained hands-on experience that shaped her commitment to ethical processes, land stewardship and the resources nature provided or farmed.
Material consciousness and waste is a key factor to the work undertaken by Ngaire.
By age 16, she was already working on sheep farms and had launched her first business creating organic, gluten-free, and dairy-free baked muffins for local cafés. This led to working in the food, drink and textiles, shaping a lifelong commitment to ethical production and environmental stewardship.
In 1990 - 1993, Ngaire undertook an Apprenticeship for a shoe manufacturer where skills and knowledge grew further in sourcing, production, materials, sales and marketing. Experienced covered from shoe lasts to shop sales and even buying and account management.
In 2003, Ngaire founded her second business in the UK, continuing her focus on artisan collaboration and material traceability. A long-time supporter of Fibershed since 2011, she established the Belgium affiliate in 2023, with a particular emphasis on wool, flax, and creating a natural colour palette of the region.
Today, Ngaire runs Belgium’s first dedicated Wool Lab, where she promotes circular processing, transparency in production, and educational initiatives for students, artisans, and industry professionals. Her work is grounded in celebrating local resources to continue to be present, supporting cross-border collaboration, and championing the value of natural fibers in new, innovative applications.
Wool, being a natural fiber has huge potential and is not just suited for a pair of Uncle's socks or Grandmothers shawl. Within the Wool Lab we live to explore, develop and challenge the present-day processes to further bring new applications and usability of wool.
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For some years we have been advising Farmers - if your land is well and nurtured, the land will return good growth and wellbeing.
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"healthy soil = healthy land = healthy sheep = healthy wool"
Support your local farmers
Healthy soil and land = healthy sheep = healthy wool