The aim of this project was to research knit structures, which would reduce the visibility of unwanted spots, which often appear in natural dyeing process. The solution was to mix natural and man-made materials in small-scale three-dimensional structures, which resulted in painterly, lively effect, as the materials take the dye differently.

The knits are a mix of viscose, polyamide and metallic yarns. The designs take inspiration from the four seasons in Japanese culture and art.

This project was done in connection to a collaboration project between Aalto University, Tama Art University and Sasakawa Foundation in 2019, with the aim of promoting cultural excange between Finland and Japan. Presented at Helsinki Design Week 2019.

All the knitwear and garments designed by me, the woven fabric of the skirt designed by Maija Fagerlund.

The garments are dyed with dyer's woad, which produces natural, non-toxic blue dye. As water pollution is increased by synthetic chemicals used in the process of dyeing textiles, dyer's woad could replace some of the dyes sustainably. Collaboration with BioColour research group in Aalto University.

Photos: Eeva Suorlahti