Today we're sharing our interview with Tokuko about her design for Issue 24, Umibata ("Seaside").
When you picture the ocean, what kind of scenery comes to mind? The subtle narrowing stripes of Tokuko's vest design were inspired by childhood memories of the ocean around her hometown. We hope it will rekindle some of your own seaside memories!
amirisu: What challenges did you encounter during the design process?Tokuko: With the theme of “Heritage” I knew I wanted to make something inspired by Nagasaki, my where I was born, and I chose the sea as my concept. But I knit a lot of swatches and hesitated to finalize the design for quite a while until I finally arrived at this design and shape. The soft lines worked in reverse stockinette and the narrowing stripes represent the ocean beyond the ria coast.
amirisu: If you were to knit this design in another color, what would it be?Tokuko: We are unfortunately out of stock right now, but I would really like to knit this in a chic combination of gray and black.
amirisu: Tell us a little bit about a favorite place of yours in the town or area you grew up in or where you live now.
Tokuko: I only lived in Nagasaki until high school so I don’t have that much accumulated knowledge, but I think the Sotome area makes for a a really nice drive. The coastal scenery is beautiful and you can see some historic Christian sites, too.
amirisu: What is one handicraft or traditional art or skill (other than knitting) from your country or region that you like or have an interest in?
Tokuko: Nagasaki is famous for the pottery made in Hasami and in neighboring Saga Prefecture there is Arita ware, too. I haven’t lived in that area for some time, but even now I love picking out dishes. I still use a few types of Arita ware pieces that I’ve had ever since I moved away from home for university. I think it’s because it’s porcelain that it holds up so well and I've never gotten tired of using it.
Thank you, Tokuko!