I previously mentioned that we’re working on a book tentatively titled LOOPWHEELER A to Z, which is scheduled for release by Sekai Bunka Publishing on November 15. 

Today, we had an over two-hour roundtable with Beams Plus, covering key points, including the first-ever collaboration between Beams Plus and LOOPWHEELER, such as the multi-colored sweatshirts and LW Bear Beams Plus version, both of which are very valuable items of Mr.Okawa. They very nostalgic items for me as well.

Mr. Takuya Mitsuki, former editor-in-chief of Begin magazine and now a director at Begin Inc., was instrumental in the early success of LOOPWHEELER. About 20 years ago, he was the first to write about Kanekichi Industries’ loop wheel knitting machines, helping raise awareness beyond newspapers. Our relationship started back then when we were both young, and despite tight schedules, we managed to get through it.

LOOPWHEELER has focused on craftsmanship over design, with a strong emphasis on making products by carefully selecting yarns of different types, thicknesses, and spinning methods. We work with carded yarn, combed yarn, compact yarn, and more, adjusting yarn characteristics to craft unique products. By changing the threads used for different parts of our loopwheel fabric, like the outer, middle, and inner layers, we can adjust factors like texture, thickness, and weight. This degree of control allows us to create highly original items. Beams Plus understood this deeply, and through our nearly 20 years of collaboration, they’ve successfully communicated our craftsmanship to their customers. This strong relationship with Beams Plus is why we’ve been able to continue collaborating for so long.

Beams Plus is also celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and we are producing a 25×25 commemorative product.