We Are Tomodachi Summer 2017

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32“My brain is made for knitting. If I see something interesting, I immediately think about how I can turn it into knitting.” Bernd Kestler—knitting artist, designer and instructor—knits everything from the standard socks and scarves to the not-so-typical haori (kimono jacket) and lampshades. Growing up in a small town in Germany, Kestler loved to play outdoors. He also enjoyed the beautiful knitwear his elder sister made for him. When he was 12 years old, something happened that changed his life. “My sister started knitting more for her boyfriend and less for me. So I taught myself knitting, and have kept on with the craft for more than 40 years.”While in university, Kestler worked part-time for a company that developed and organized business seminars. “I organized classes on Japanese management philosophy, so I had to study about Japanese business, traditions, and modern culture, like animation and games. Japan fascinated me!” After graduating, he got his first job in Tokyo with an interior design company. While he enjoyed the job, he felt something was missing. Meeting people who did what they liked for a living, Kestler would wonder, “Why not me?” Finally, in 2010, he decided to start his first knitting class. Knitting the World TogetherSeries: Friends of Japan“I think of knitting all day long, even in my dreams. I don’t need a vacation, because I don’t need to get away from anything.”In Kestler‘s class, students make whatever they like while enjoying conversation in Japanese, German and English.Kestler’s works vary from knitwear to interior accessories such as a wall clock.Heel-less socks are one of Kestler’s masterpieces. They fit all sizes and are easy to make even for beginners.