When we say Sandstorm is a "Made by Kenya" brand, we mean it on every level. It’s more than just a label—it’s a philosophy that defines who we are. It’s in the spirit of Kenya: bold, creative, and rooted in community. It’s in our manufacturing, with every Sandstorm bag carefully crafted right here in Nairobi by skilled Kenyan artisans. And it’s in our sourcing—we work with local partners who share our values and our commitment to excellence, like Thika Cloth Mills (TCM), who produce the iconic canvas that sets our bags apart.
We recently had the pleasure of visiting TCM—one of Kenya’s oldest and most respected textile manufacturers, and a key partner in helping us bring Sandstorm products to life.
One of the key defining characteristics of our bags is the exceptional quality of our canvas. It’s durable, beautiful, and made to last. But more than that, it’s made in Kenya. That matters to us—not just for quality’s sake, but because it aligns with our mission of creating opportunities for incredible Kenyans at every stage of the journey, from field to fabric to finished product.
TCM has been operating since 1958, and walking through their factory is like stepping into a space where tradition and innovation live side by side. From spinning to weaving to dyeing and finishing, we saw firsthand the craftsmanship and care that go into every roll of fabric before it arrives at our workshop.
What impressed us most was TCM’s unwavering commitment to local sourcing and sustainability. The cotton is grown by Kenyan farmers. The jobs are local. The impact is national. This isn’t just a supply chain—it’s a story of shared values, and a real example of what “Made by Kenya” looks like in action.
We captured the spirit of this visit—the hum of looms, the hands at work, the texture and color of it all—and brought it to life in a short reel, now live on our social channels.
This journey reminded us that making bags isn’t just about design and production. It’s about people. About purpose. About knowing where our materials come from, and who makes them.
We’re proud to call Thika Cloth Mills our partner—not only for the quality they deliver, but for the shared belief that the best things are made with heart, right here in Kenya.
Explore our canvas collection and make this story your own today here.
