Shop Blog
Guidance of autumn best fair
October 13, 2022
date and time
WALNUT Tokyo store: 10/18 (Tue) - 10/22 (Sat) 11:00-18:00
WALNUT Kyoto store: 10/26 (Wed) afternoon - 11/1 (Tue) 11:00-17:00
*On the first day, 10/26, it will be displayed as soon as the package arrives. Please note that it may not have arrived in the morning.
*We are closed on Sundays and Mondays. please note.
LA BIEN AIMÉE Pop-up Event: Ticket Sales Information
October 07, 2022
Aimée is coming! (Part 1)
October 06, 2022
This fall is the La bien Aimée festival!
A festival of La bien Aimée is coming this fall!
Announcement of LA BIEN AIMÉE Pop-up event
October 04, 2022
Information on events (pop-up shop and knit night).
what are you knitting now?ーTokyo store editionー
September 03, 2022
This is Tamaki from the Travel book!
MYSTERY KAL 2022 Q&A in English
September 02, 2022
We've collected some of the most frequently asked questions about MKALs in general and this year's project and prepared our answers below.
It might be a little unnerving to knit a project without knowing the final design or shape, but the anticipation of seeing the shawl come together is one of the most exciting parts of participating in a Mystery KAL!
There's no need to worry about perfection. Even if you find that your shawl is shaped is a little different than others or the colors combined in unexpected ways, it will be equally beautiful wrapped around you.
In any case, we hope that everyone will have fun! If this is your first Mystery KAL, we hope it will inspire you to savor the creative freedom and malleable nature of knitting!
- Tokuko Ochiai, designer
[ Basic Questions ]
What is a KAL ?
KAL is short for “knit along.” A knit along is an event where people knit a project or projects at the same time based on a common theme.
Okay, so what'sa Mystery KAL ?
For this type of KAL, participants knit from a pattern without seeing what the final project looks like, hence the mystery!
For our 2022 MKAL, the only details participants know are that the project is a shawl and four colors of fingering weight yarn will be used.
The pattern will be distributed in five parts, 1 part or “clue” will be sent each week for five weeks. As you work on each part, you can enjoy imagining and anticipating what might be next.
How do I participate?
Purchase access to the pattern through one of our Japan-based online shops:
Can I participate in the MKAL even if I didn't purchase a yarn set from amirisu?
Of course! Feel free to use yarn you have at home or buy some new special skiens from any local yarn shop. Any fingering weight yarn can be used. (Please keep reading for some of our suggestions regarding fiber.) There's no requirement to purchase yarn from amirisu to participate in the MKAL.
Can beginners knit this pattern, too?
We've prepared video tutorials for important techniques, so even if you're new to knitting, with a little gumption we think you can do it!
Please note that the pattern is a written pattern, not a Japanese-style schematic pattern.
What if I ca n't finish it on time ?
No problem! We hope everyone will enjoy knitting at their own pace, we hope participants won't stress about completing each clue or the entire project by a certain date
That said, since others will be knitting along, it can help keep up you motivated and serve as encouragement to keep making progress. You may be surprised by how fast you complete each clue, or even the entire shawl.
Once the MKAL period is over, participants will begin to post pictures of their completed projects on Instagram, Ravelry, or other SNS, so take care if you would prefer to avoid spoilers.
[ About yarn, colors, & yarn sets ]
Do you have any suggestions for selecting colors ?
There is no right or wrong choice when picking colors, so feel free to pick colors you like.
Here are a few extra suggestions that may be helpful:
・Select colors that contrast with each other
・Limit speckled or highly variegated skeins to 1-2 of your colors.
・If you can pair any of your four colors together for pleasing 2-color combinations, you 'll be in good shape!
Should the fiber content be the same for all 4 colors ?
It will be easiest to work with yarns that are mostly made of wool. Yarns that have a mix of majority wool with a different fiber (alpaca, yak, cotton, etc.) would also be a good match.
Should the thickness or weight be the same for all four yarns ?
It will be easiest to work with yarns that are basically the same thickness/weight.
Combining different weights isn't a problem for the pattern, but it may change the finished dimensions of your shawl. For example, if you have a skein of sport weight yarn that you really want to use, it might be fine to combine with fingering weight scales.
Can mohair be used ?
It may be difficult to work certain clues with mohair yarn. If you want to use mohair, we suggest using it as an additional accent.
For the amirisu yarn sets, are there specific instructions for when to use each color ?
No, there is no designation in the pattern as to which color in the set should be used for colors 1, 2, 3, or 4. Your shawl will be lovely no matter how you combine the colors!
The amirisu yarn set I wanted has sold out.
It depends on the yarn, but it is unlikely that the exact same kits will be available again. If you love a sold-out yarn set, we encourage you to use it as inspiration to go through your yarn at home or purchase individual skeins for a similar look.
Can I change the colors part way through ?
Of course! You can switch colors at any time, it could make for a very interesting and unique shawl, too. We love experimenting with color for shawl projects.
Since the story is related to the moon, should I include yellow or another moon-like color ?
There's no requirement (or pattern instructions) to use any moon-inspired colors. Feel free to pick colors you like!
Can I ask for color advice at one of the Walnut Shops ?
We are happy to help you at our Tokyo or Kyoto shops. However, the design is a mystery for our shop staff, too, so they are not able to offer any hints or advice related to the final design.
What if I decide midway through that I don't like the colors I 've been using?
There are a few solutions we can recommend if you find you are unhappy with your color selection.
- You could unravel your shawl and start over with different colors.There's nothing wrong with restarting any number of times to make sure you're happy with the project.
2. We understand that it is difficult to select colors without knowing the final design. If you feel strongly about selecting your perfect color combination, you could wait to start your shawl until the MKAL has finished and you can see the complete design. s not as exciting to start after you've seen the final design, but if you would like to know exactly how each color will be used, this might be a good option for you.
- You could add in lots of colors instead of using just the original four you picked. If you're fan of colorful designs like those by Stephen West, we recommend giving this option a try. Adding more colors can bring an unexpected kind of cohesion to the project and will ensure that your shawl is truly unique.
[ About the Shawl ]
How large will the finished shawl be ?
It will be about the size of a shawl made with three 100g skeins. The design aims for a shawl that is easy to use and not too big nor too small.
What shape will it be ?
It will be a unique shape, so not a triangle, half-circle, or rectangle.
[ Others ]
How long of a cord/cable needle should be used ?
We recommend 24”/60cm or longer.
Can straight knitting needles be used ?
They can be used for Clue 1, but as the number of stitches increase straight needles will be difficult to use. We recommend using a circular knitting needle.
How concerned should I be about gauge for this project?
Since it is a shawl, you don't need to worry too much about gauge.
If I think I 've found an error, what should I do ?
Please send us an email at info@amirisu.com
Please be sure to include your order number and full name in the message.
Is there some kind of penalty for not using the MKAL cover image on Instagram or Ravelry ?
There is no penalty, and our staff is not able to keep an eye on how all participants share their progress.
However, we appreciate it if participants can help avoid spoilers for other knitters during the MKAL period by using a cover image (like the provided MKAL image). If you are worried about seeing spoilers, we recommend taking care when viewing SNS, just in case .
What is Dropbox ?
Dropbox is an online file storage service. You can access a folder or files on your PC, smart phone, or tablet by accessing the URL provided. You can view and download the files without signing up for a Dropbox account.
From September 16, a portion of the pattern will be uploaded to the MKAL Dropbox folder on every Friday for 5 weeks. We will notify participants when the file has been added to the folder by email, so once you receive the email please access the folder to view and download the next clue.
Mystery KAL 2022 Q&A
August 31, 2022
Amirisu Mystery KAL 2022!
We have compiled frequently asked questions about the event. Please read before you start knitting.
I think it's uneasy to knit without knowing the finished shape, but enjoying it is the real pleasure of Mystery KAL.
Don't expect perfection. Since it's a shawl, you can just wrap it around your neck even if the shape changes a little.
If you try to wear the color, it's something you don't really care about.
It's important to have fun! I hope this Mystery KAL will give you a chance to start knitting more freely.
From Tokuko
[Basic questions]
What are KALs?
Abbreviation for Knit along. This is an event where everyone can knit together under the same theme.
What are Mystery KALs?
Since it is a mystery, it is a KAL that can be knitted without knowing the finished shape.
This time, the only thing I knew at first was that it was a shawl, and that the threads used were 4 colors of Fingering.
The pattern is divided into 5 pieces and you will receive one each week for 5 weeks. The pattern that arrives is called a Clue (= key to solving the mystery). What's next? Please continue knitting with excitement.
How do I participate?
Purchase a pattern set from our online shop.
Can I participate without buying a thread set?
of course. Please use the thread you have on hand. It doesn't have to be yarn purchased at amirisu.
Can even a beginner do it?
I will attach an easy-to-understand knitting video, so if you are motivated, you can do it!
But all patterns are sentences. No knitting pattern. It may be difficult for those who are new to sentence patterns. If you're worried about it, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with Japanese sentence patterns in advance. Please search for "Japanese sentence pattern" in the online shop and find the pattern you like.
Does it have to be completed during the period?
It doesn't matter if you don't complete it. Feel free to knit at your own pace.
However, during the KAL period, everyone knits at the same time. If you have time, it is recommended that you do your best and finish it during the period.
When the period ends, many photos of the completed work will be posted on Instagram, so be careful if you don't want to see spoilers.
[About threads, color matching, and yarn sets]
Do you have any tips for color matching?
There is no correct answer for color matching, so choose your favorite color.
Here are some other points to note.
- Include contrasting color combinations
・Hand-dyed shimmery threads should be about 1-2 colors. If all the threads are flickering, the pattern will be difficult to see.
・When combining 4 colors of thread with 2 colors each, it's OK if you can combine them without any discomfort and feel good!
Should I have the same thread material?
Threads mixed with alpaca, yak, cotton, etc. are fine, but it is easier to knit if the main yarn is wool.
Should the thickness of the thread be the same?
It is easier to knit when they are aligned.
It doesn't matter if the size or shape of the shawl changes a little, so if you really want to use it, it may be okay to mix it with a Sport shawl.
Is it okay to wear mohair?
Depending on the Clue, it is assumed that mohair is difficult to knit. If you want to use it, try to incorporate it partially as an accent color.
We do not recommend including mohair in the basic 4 skeins.
Is there any specification of where and how many colors are to be used for the yarn set?
Not specified. No matter where you use it, it will surely look great!
The set I wanted was sold out. Is it possible that the same set will be resold?
Depending on the thread, it is unlikely that the exact same set will be resold. If it is sold out, try buying similar threads separately and combining them.
Can I change the color in the middle?
No problem. If you don't like it, it would be fun to add more and more new threads. The good thing about shawls is that, unlike clothing, you can go on adventures with colors.
Since the story is about the moon, should I put yellow in it?
don't worry about it at all. Please choose your favorite color!
Is it possible for you to consult with me about color selection at the shop?
can. Please come and visit us. However, the staff does not know what kind of shawl it will be, so please understand that point.
I hated the color combination halfway through. I can't believe it. What should I do? There are some workarounds.
1. Why don't you take the plunge and try knitting in a different color? You can re-knit it as many times as you want until you are satisfied.
2. It is difficult to choose the ideal color without knowing the finished shape. If you really don't want to make a mistake, wait until the end of KAL and see the finished product before choosing your favorite color. The excitement will be reduced, but I think you can choose a color that you can agree with.
3. How about adding more colors? Recommended for those who like Stephen West knits. The more colors you add, the better the unity will be, making it a one-of-a-kind shawl.
[About the shawl]
What is the finished size?
It's about the size of using three 100g skeins. It's not too big, not too small, and easy to use.
What shape will the shawl be?
It is not a triangle, a semicircle, or a rectangle, but a deformation.
【others】
How many centimeters or more should the cord of the circular needle be?
60cm or more is easy to knit.
Can you knit with double needles?
I think it is possible up to Clue 1, but it is difficult with a double needle because the number of stitches increases gradually. Please use a circular needle.
How much do you care about games?
It's a shawl, so you don't have to worry about it too much. However, if you don't have enough thread, you may run out of thread, so be careful.
Is it an error? Who should I contact if I have a problem?
Please email us at info@amirisu.com.
Please be sure to write your order number and full name.
Are there any penalties for spoilers on Instagram without a cover photo?
We can't check everything, and there are no penalties.
However, I would appreciate it if you could cooperate in preventing spoilers as much as possible. If you do not want to be spoiled, we recommend that you do not check SNS.
What is Dropbox?
A system for storing files online. If you know the URL of the folder where the file is saved, you can view the file from your computer, smartphone, tablet, etc. No registration required.
Starting September 16th, we will put patterns in folders every Friday for 5 weeks. We will notify you by e-mail when the data is stored, so please access the folder and download the file.
Cosmology DARUMA Collection 2022 Exhibition Information
August 24, 2022
DARUMA Collection will be released again this year!
amirisu publishes a collection of DARUMA threads every year. Following “Epistemology DARUMA Collection 2020” and “Sublation Daruma Collection 2021”, we will release “Cosmology DARUMA Collection 2022” in the fall of 2022.
The theme this time is Heavenly Bodies. It's a celestial body.
The guest designers are Kiyomi Burgin and Sachiko Burgin, who always create cute patterns.
It's a surprising combination of "knitwear and space?" It's a playful knit that uses a lot of DARUMA's bright pop colors.
So, at WALNUT Tokyo and Kyoto, we will hold an exhibition commemorating the release of "Cosmology DARUMA Collection 2022". Please come and see the real thing.
place
WALNUT Tokyo
Address: Room 1F-2, DeLCCS Minami-Aoyama, 3-8-5 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-6910-5753
WALNUT Kyoto
Address: 745 Kikuyacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City
Phone: 075-708-7210
date and time
WALNUT Tokyo store: 9/1 (Thu) - 9/10 (Sat) 11:00-18:00
*We are closed on Sundays and Mondays. please note.
WALNUT Kyoto store: 9/15 (Thu) - 9/24 (Sat) 11:00-17:00
*We are closed on Sundays and Mondays. please note.
content
・Display of samples ・Sales of kits
It's fun just looking at cute and spacey photos.
This time, we made samples of both S size and L size, and two models are wearing them, so it's easier to choose the size.
Of course, both samples will be displayed at the exhibition (in other words, it's double the usual amount, so I'm not sure if I can put all of them...), so please try the size.
We are looking forward to your visit!
The Factory Top made with nani IRO Textile
August 18, 2022
Popular pattern from Merchant and Mills, The Factory .
Originally it was a dress, but a little while ago, a pattern arranged for a top appeared. The handsome collar is just as it is, and it seems to expand the range of wearing.
Nakanaga, who loves open-collared shirts, fell in love at first sight! I made two of these last weekend.
The fabric used is nani IRO Textile's thin linen (pattern: rakuen) for the floral pattern , and nani IRO Textile's linen gauze (pattern: Air Time) for the other.
Both are light and soft, perfect for summer.
It's well ventilated, "It's really cool and the best!" Just wearing the floral pattern will make you feel like you are traveling to a southern island, and the gentle pattern that looks like a light watercolor painting will be very comfortable to wear!
The fact that it can be worn over the head and does not have buttons is also a recommended point. You don't have to make buttons or stop it, so it's a lot easier.
There is nothing particularly difficult, but you need to be a little careful when handling thin and rough fabrics like gauze.
Since it frays easily, Mr. Nakanaga changed the stitch width of the sewing machine from the standard 2.5mm to 2mm.
If you use a zigzag sewing machine, the fabric will inevitably stretch and the end paper will flutter.
Here are the other changes.
- Removed breast pocket
- Length shortened by 6cm
・The depth of the opening of the collar has been slightly shallowed (Mr. Nakanaga made a size 16, but he said it was a size 10)
Like this, the hem slit is in the front.
Even if you try making it with a slightly thicker fabric, it will keep its shape and look cute!
To make it, you need to buy the pattern from The Factory Dress plus the PDF pattern for arrangement. In the additional PDF, there is a paper pattern for the body and how to finish the hem.
If you can draw your own pattern, you may be able to do it with the information on the Merchant and Mills blog without buying an additional PDF.
Please take a look.
detail
Pattern: The Factory, Factory Top Addition
Fabric: nani IRO Textile thin linen, nani IRO Textile linen gauze
Size: 16