House of Embroidery is a proudly South African Fair Trade company that has been in operation since 1995. Over the past 25 years, they have grown from a small, home-based dye works to a 10 member team with a factory where they meticulously hand dye 100% cotton threads and other fibers. HOB provides employment for preciously disadvantaged South Africans, particularly single mothers, who are the sole breadwinners in their families. The majority of their staff have been with the company since its inception, and the knowledge and skills that they have are a great asset to their growth. Sourced directly from manufacturers who operate according to ethical standards, their threads and silks are of the highest quality. Hand dyed in small batches with the utmost care, they provide an extraordinary range of colorfast threads, from beautiful blushes to vibrant violets. They pride themselves on providing opportunities for community outreach programs in South Africa, such as the Imbali Visual Literacy Project and the Boitumelo Sewing Project, a division of the Outreach Foundation. HOB provides assistance with tuition for some of the students as well as sponsoring threads and ribbons for their various projects.

The Spargo’s roots are deeply grounded within the vast and beautiful country of South Africa. It is a place that is like no other. From the wildlife to the wild land, to the spirit and soul of her people.
From birth to her 30’s, Sue lived in Africa and it continues to be a source of inspiration that drives many of her designs. It is a privilege to partner with Global Artisans and the House of Embroidery, and to be afforded this opportunity to create with a little piece of home.