Interview with Sayoko Kitai

Sayoko Kitai ("SK") interviewed on Wednesday, 18 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

SK : I have been in this industry for more than 20 years and recognized by several organizations for great quality of my works. One of the most prominent clients for me is Ms. Yumi Katsura, a famous wedding dress designer. I provided some embroidery works for wedding dresses and a tuxedo she designed. I have never learned designing or stitching at any school but learned them by myself.

How did you become a designer?

SK : I first started stitching because I just wanted to make my children happy. I really liked seeing them smiling when they saw stitched cars or robots. My strong feeling of wanting to reproduce the beauty of nature is also one of my reasons to become a designer and creator.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

SK : I feel excited through the course of designing and creation with the realized work in my mind. For me, the most exciting moment is when designs are realized.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

SK : I watch and examine things closely and always keep designing or creating without giving up. I think these helped me become successful.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

SK : Almost 40 years ago, I started designing and stitching for my children. It had been just one of my favorite things to do for a long time. But, after I won several prizes and awards, I trademarked “Rittai-Shisyuu (3D Embroidery)” about 20 years ago, started creating embroidery works as business, and established my own brand 2 years ago.

What is your day to day look like?

SK : In the morning, after doing some workout, mainly stretching, I start designing or crafting. In early evening, I go for a walk to get new inspirations.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

SK : I read fashion magazines to follow up trends. That said, it is important for me to prioritize what I really want to design and create.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

SK : I first look at its overall balance, because I think it is the key for successful designs, as well as its backside.

What is your biggest design work?

SK : As I mentioned earlier, my biggest work is for Yumi Katsura, because it was very time-sensitive. I also had to design and craft embroidery works just with her staff’s directions and images and without even seeing sketches of her dress design or the actual dress made.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

SK : I love to design in a quiet environment. However, during crafting, I love to listen to BABYMETAL songs.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

SK : Collaborating with other people is possible for me, and the most desirable partner can be a person who can inspire each other and be on level ground.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

SK : Design competitions such as the A’ Design Award are one of the opportunities for gaining publicity, as well as a chance to try designing new works.

Sayoko Kitai Profile