It's been a long time since we attended a trade show (2019!!!) but this summer we went to Rosemont, Illinois to check out h+h americas. This was the second ever h+h show in the US and it featured yarn, fabric, and notions as well as other craft adjacent industries. We went to see if we could find some new-to-us products and like-minded companies to collaborate with. One of the highlights of the show was Pom Powers's ikigai fiber booth.
Featuring beautiful yarn, great packaging, and colorful samples we had to stop and learn more about ikigai fiber (pronunciation: ee-key-guy). Ikigai is the Japanese word for the idea of “finding your purpose or passion” - “reason for being”. Pam Powers writes, “We all have that one thing, the idea for which we will gladly toil away at day in and day out. For me, this is knitting - I wake up every morning excited about what new projects lay ahead of me. If you’re a knitter, then you know the importance of having a hobby that is both enjoyable and productive. Knitting can be both of those things, but it can also be so much more.”
You'll now find all three of ikigai fiber's yarns in the store: Chibi Paka Chunky (75% superwash merino, 25% alpaca), Tama (70% nylon, 40% polyester), and Poketto Chibi Pack (100% wool mini skeins in a dozen vibrant colors). You'll also find 100% wool pom poms and embroidered buttons that coordinate beautifully with Chibi Paka Chunky. Another incredible addition is ikigai fiber's "Stick and Stitch Embroidery" patterns. A great way to embellish or mend your knitting/crochet projects.
You can check out the trunk show from July 18- August 8, 2023 which has great examples of working Chibi Paka Chunky with Tama, embellishing ready-to-wear garments, adding pom poms to more than your hat, and color work.
For those of you that can't make it to the store in-person, here are a few photos that really show how versatile ikigai fiber is.
gather here is committed to offering products from diverse, independent entrepreneurs and creators. Pam Powers has created yarn and branding that is contemporary and joyful and totally inline with our aesthetic. We're proud to share these products with the community and hope you'll find ikigai fibers a joy to work with as well.