Today I would like to introduce Yuko Shimizu, an Azure designer. Knitted sweaters are popular with knitters overseas, and for No. 20, they designed a cardigan full of wonderful details.
amirisu: Where did you get the inspiration for this design?
Yuko: Besides knitting, I also like sewing, and I often wear clothes that I sew myself in the summer. Especially when traveling in the summer, a dress that can be coordinated with just one piece is indispensable. I like old-fashioned fit and flare dresses, and I've always thought it would be nice to have something that would go well with that kind of dress.
That's why, when I heard the theme of No. 20, I immediately remembered walking on the stone pavement in a dress and jute sandals under the blazing sun. The sun is shining bright and the breeze is blowing. . . This Azure cardigan is the result of that.
amirisu: If you were to knit another one, what color would it be?
Yuko: Actually, I already knitted one in mustard color (Denali from amirisu Parade). The designated yarn is amirisu Wanderlust Linen, but we also recommend knitting with Parade! If I were to knit another piece, I would like to knit it in navy and add black square buttons. I want to wear light blue for the seaside, mustard for walking around town under the bright sunshine, and navy for nightlife.
amirisu: What inspired you to start knitting?
Yuko: Ever since I can remember, I've been a kid who likes to pull out my mother's sewing books and fantasize about this and that. My mother was a dressmaker, and my grandmother was good at knitting, so there were many such books at home. When I was about five years old, my mother gave me a needle, thread and cloth and taught me to embroider. After that, I feel like I was fascinated by the charm of "making something".
One of my favorite things back then and even now, and I'm sure you all agree, is to check every nook and cranny of the handicraft section of a bookstore. My first memory of starting knitting is when I grabbed a book on crochet lace and learned how to knit from my grandmother, who was good at knitting.
amirisu: Please let me know if you have any recommended shops or places near your home (I dream of the days when I can travel freely).
Yuko: I live in the eastern part of Fukuoka, but when the weather is nice, I like to go out by car to the western part. Cross the Aratsu Bridge (a bridge over Hakata Port. The design of the bridge itself is cool, and above all, you can see the sky and the sea very beautifully from there) to Itoshima. My most luxurious way to spend my weekends is to leisurely browse the European antique shop called Humming Joe by the sea. Not only beautiful Scandinavian antique furniture, but also rare handicraft books, fabrics, doilies, Tyrolean tapes, and other handicraft-related items will fascinate you.
Also, there are many delicious oyster huts, restaurants, stylish cafes and potteries in Itoshima, so no matter how many times you visit, you will feel fresh. A car is essential to see the shops, but this area is highly recommended. I am also looking forward to the day when I can take a leisurely short trip again when the impact of COVID-19 subsides.
