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A World of Knitting: Japan

Author: acrosstheuniverse

A world of knitting.

Yes, we do knit in our own homes with our own friends, probably taught by our own family members. But have you ever thought of how far the tradition of knitting really extends? In the United States and Canada, knitting took centre-stage during the war as women helped the overseas war efforts by knitting endless pairs of socks to keep their soldiers toes dry. Your great grandmother may have taught your great grandmother who taught your mom who taught you. Otherwise, maybe not.

With so many outlets on the internet, as well as knitting shops popping up all over, the time to learn is now. But how are others learning around the world? What's popular in different countries? How is knitting different from across the globe?

We hope to take you on that world-wind tour right now, so grab your yarn and needles and come along for the ride! Our first stop is…

Japan

Beginnings

"Amimono ima mukashi" (Knitting Today & Past) was written by Yoshihiro Matushita in 1986, published by Nihon Vogue. Matushita describes one of the first instances of knitting in his book in the process of knitting leg-protectors for soldiers, called Habaki that were usually made from Karamushi which is a linen type of woven material. In the past Buddist cloths were also woven and knitted from yucca vines. These garments were worn by the priest and the technique employed is the same as when making Tawara, which is a straw bag used to keep farm products in.

Samurai Knitters?

The need for more knitted appeal such as socks and gloves for the military effort continued.And interestingly enough, it was the Samurai themselves that picked up the slack! Since they did not get paid that well, oftentimes Samurai would knit their own Tabi, which is a Japanese style of sock which has the big toe separate from the rest of the toes. This "split-toe" feature was also worn by Shinto priests and Kabuki (Japanese Theatre) actors because of their increased mobility and flexibility. According to Matushita, the Nanbumatumae-han, Hitotubashi-ke, Tayasu-ke and Hitachitatugasaki-han clans were the most active and avid knitters. "A Samurai knitter called Mr.Terufusa Orihara from Hitotubashi-ke was famed for his skilled knitting of of Meriyasu (Stocking stitch)". (Story of Knitting in Japan)

Modern Day Japan

Knitting is a hobby that is taken up by older generations and younger just like other countries, as well its hobby status goes up and down depending on the fashion trends and fads. One of the trends though that is catching many Japanese eyes is a male designer whose patterns and craftspersonship is taking Japan by storm.

Prince of Yarn: Mitsuharu Hirose

To all those who question his existence and contribution in a field that is mainly viewed as a women's hobby he says:

"People can fully develop their abilities only if they are provided with an environment in which their individuality is valued and being different is all right."

Mitsuharu Hirose has become instantly famous as a face that is changing the sterotypes of knitting and changing the declining nature of knitwear. His amazing knitting abilties coupled with original designs also makes him a favourite. His patterns are both functional and fashionable and many have deemed this work something that people really want to wear. As the "prince of the knitting world", Hirose has become a television favourite, hosting his own instructional videos and touring around doing interviews, and features in magazines.

As an instructor, Hirose not only designs his knitwear but models it. He believes that knitting shows both perseverance and the ability to be redone and changed into something new. He is changing the way people see knitting and as his popularity grows, so does the interest in his main interest, knitting itself.

And along with the technology driven culture of Japan comes strange and creative projects such as this, to help fuse craft and technology together. Such inspiration through knitting is known world-wide!