Knitwear

Our collection of knitwear focusses mainly on garments created on vintage machines in Japan. One example of this is loopwheel knitting, which has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century when the process was first developed in Europe. In the 1920s, German engineers created the loopwheel knitting machine as a more efficient and precise method for producing knit fabrics. Unlike traditional knitting machines, loopwheel machines use a circular arrangement of needles to knit fabric in a seamless tube, allowing for a smoother and more consistent texture. Read more

During the mid-20th century, loopwheel knitting gained popularity in the production of sportswear and undergarments due to its ability to create breathable, stretchy, and durable fabrics. The loopwheel method involves a slower knitting process, but it produces a higher quality and softer fabric compared to other techniques.

In the latter part of the 20th century, as technology advanced, loopwheel machines faced competition from faster, more automated knitting methods. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional craftsmanship and high-quality textiles. This has led to a revival of loopwheel knitting, with Japanese brands importing vintage machines from the USA and creating knitwear that is revered as the most comfortable and durable in the world.