Hikari by yamagara

June 04, 2020

Are you enjoying amirisu 20 ?

Today we would like to introduce Hikari 's designer, yamagara. She lives in Singapore, which is hot and humid throughout the year, and says she is always looking for yarn that suits the climate. This short-sleeved pullover using amirisu's original parade is perfect for the coming season in Japan.

amirisu: Where did you get the inspiration for this design?

yamagara: I'm a fan of amirisu and walnut, and whenever I go to Japan, I make sure to visit the shops in Tokyo or Kyoto. The design for issue #20 started when I visited the Tokyo store in 2019.

I bought amirisu Parade's New York color used in this sample to knit Blossom designed by Megumi Sawada. Having previously knitted Ekuni, designed by Tokuko, and then Blossom again with the same yarn, I knew Parade would be perfect for my knitwear needs in my wardrobe.

I often get inspiration for designs from threads, and this time as well, I had no hesitation in using Parade, which can beautifully express simple lines and delicate patterns. I envisioned a short-sleeved style that you would reach for again and again when you wanted to be fashionable or casual, something that was sleek and universal, but with interesting details on the back.

Influenced by Tadao Ando's sharp straight lines and geometric shapes, as well as architecture that reveals light and materials, Hikari is my own expression of knitting.

amirisu: If you were to knit another one, what color would it be?

yamagara: The first sample was knitted with yarn I had on hand, and then amirisu sent me the colors I chose. I actually already knit one for myself in Xauen colors . I'm sure I'll wear this blue Hikari with various clothes from now on . After that, Parade has a new color, so if I want to knit more, I will choose Sienna.

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).

yamagara: There aren't many nice yarn shops in Singapore yet, so I usually buy yarn overseas (especially in Japan) or online. I had an opportunity. In May 2020, Singapore's first Yarn Crawl with local hand dyers and yarn makers was scheduled to take place, but had to be postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak. If I have another chance, I would like to introduce them to you.