We were lucky to catch up with Amani Naija recently and have shared our conversation below.
Amani, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is my crochet brand ‘Khob_Design’. This journey began during my third year of architecture studies, where the assignment was to conceptualize a fashion space in Tunis. I wanted to incorporate a textile element and chose to work with yarn. This decision led me to learn crocheting quickly, and I ended up creating my concept model with a crocheted envelope shape.
The concept, named Hylozoism, suggests that matter is inherently alive, animated, or in motion, often as a participant in the action of a higher principle, such as the world’s soul. This philosophical doctrine resonated deeply with me, particularly the idea that there is beauty in movement. I chose crocheting as my tool because, in the context of fashion, the line and knot create a connection between architectural design and Hylozoism, unfolding in space like animated matter.
I viewed each crochet stitch and pattern as a living entity, contributing to garments and accessories that felt vibrant and alive. This project was significant because it was my first exploration into blending fashion and architecture, creating hybrids like wearable structures and architectural elements that incorporate textile techniques. This experience sparked my passion for crocheting, leading me to create my own clothes, starting with the Lagom top, which embodies the concept of “just the right amount.”
Through this journey, I became aware of the environmental impact of fast fashion and the importance of ecological clothing. I advocate for wearing what you make and recycle old clothes to create new designs. This project is meaningful because it combines my interests in architecture, fashion, and sustainability, while also aiming to preserve traditional skills and promote ecological awareness. It marked a pivotal moment where I recognized that i can use my art to drive meaningful change!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Amani Naija,
A fifth-year architecture student currently living in Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia, where I study architecture.
I was born and raised in Sousse, with my childhood revolving around Moknine, where my grandparents reside, and Ksar Hellal, a neighboring town where we used to shop for our clothes. Ksar Hellal is known for its longstanding traditions in textile and garment production. Despite its rich history, Ksar Hellal faces challenges leading to degradation, including the loss of traditional skills exacerbated by technological advancements promoting fast fashion.
My focus with Khob Design centers on offering sustainable fashion alternatives. I advocate for ecological clothing practices, encouraging clients to wear what they make and recycle old garments into new designs. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also fosters a deeper connection with our clothing.
What sets Khob Design apart is our dedication to blending crocheting with modern sustainability practices and contemporary design. We create unique, timeless pieces that are versatile and multifunctional.
I take pride in our efforts to promote cultural heritage through design. Each piece from Khob Design tells a story, often inspired by lexical enrichment or historical contexts, such as my recent project focusing on Carthage. By infusing these narratives into modern fashion, I aim not only to create visually stunning pieces but also to preserve and celebrate our rich culture. For instance, a crocheted wire earings named after the goddess Tanit, the protector of Carthage and goddess of fertility and prosperity. For example the earrings, with their delicate golden filigree design, resemble the jewelry found in ancient temples dedicated to Tanit.
To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to see Khob Design as more than just a brand—it’s a philosophy and a movement toward sustainable, thoughtful fashion. Whether you’re drawn to garments or exploring fashion’s role in ecological responsibility, Khob Design offers a path to artistic expression and mindful consumption.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
What sets Khob Design apart is our commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability practices. Our main goal now is to revitalize ancient techniques like crocheting while integrating them with contemporary design and technology and thats by exploring how to connect computational softwares and crocheting! like how to convert a 3d designed model to a written pattern ! This fusion will facilitates the work for artisans whom expertise is slowly going to extinct also will allow to create unique, timeless pieces that each one can be worn in many ways , add to that the innovation that we can create with this technique.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to transform ideas into tangible expressions that resonate with others. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see a concept take shape and come to life, whether it’s through crochet pieces. This creative process allows me to explore and push the boundaries of our society, which has yet to fully embrace the culture of recycling.
By incorporating recycled materials into my designs, I challenge the conventional norms of fashion, encouraging others to see the beauty and potential in repurposed items. This not only helps reduce waste but also fosters a greater appreciation for sustainability and ecological responsibility. It’s rewarding to know that I can even slightly inspire others to think differently about their consumption habits and the impact they have on the environment.
Through Khob Design, I aim to promote a shift towards more sustainable practices, demonstrating that creativity and innovation can lead to meaningful change. I envision a society that has the potential, to create an entire industry dedicated to collecting clothes and various materials from individuals, which can then be recycled and transformed into new items. This would not only support environmental sustainability but also generate economic opportunities and strengthen community engagement in ecological practices.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khob_design/
- Other: TIKTOK : https://www.tiktok.com/@khob_design
Image Credits
Amir Kharrat
Chaima Belhassen
Oussema Zakraoui