Motifs & memories
A collaboration between two of Finland’s iconic brands, Novita and Arabia, has produced a nostalgic pattern book
THE CERAMICS company Arabia holds a special place in the hearts of Finnish people. Founded in 1873, the company has produced tableware for generations of Finnish families, and many of these much-loved designs are still available today. Likewise, the yarn brand Novita has had a long relationship with Finnish families, and its Nordic yarns have been popular for 90 years.
These two famous brands teamed up recently to produce a knitting pattern collection celebrating the best of Finland’s design and yarn heritage.
The book, Arabia x Novita Sukkalehti, contains more than 40 sock designs, in which favourite motifs from Arabia’s ceramics have been translated into colourwork designs worked in yarn.
The book is a wonderful celebration of family stories and memories, and although it is currently only available in Finnish, an English-language version is due to be published in autumn 2022. We’re delighted to be able to bring you two translated sock patterns in this special supplement.
Heritage designs
The sock collection showcases motifs and patterns from many historic Arabia products, with contributions from leading Finnish designers. The concept for the book was developed by Linda Permanto, Novita’s head of marketing and communications. “The whole idea for a sock pattern book in collaboration with Arabia actually came from my mother’s porcelain collection,” Linda explains. “My mother had Alzheimer’s disease, and had lived for a while in a nursing home. So, every time I went to my parents’ house, her Arabia tableware items reminded me of her. I thought it would be so nice to carry memories of her along with me in a pair of woollen socks, and that’s where this wonderful collaboration started.”
Many people in Finland have had a very long history with Arabia, Linda explains: “They have a lot of memories related to moments spent sipping coffee with loved ones. The younger generation, especially, link the porcelain items to cherished moments with their grandparents, or festive occasions where the whole family gathers together.”
For Linda, her favourite sock designs from the book are of course those that remind her of her mother. “The ‘Paratiisi’ (Paradise) socks are my favourite! I love all the other colourful designs, too – particularly the fabulous ‘Pastoraali 2’ design by Lumi Karmitsa.”
The Arabia x Novita Sukkalehti book has been hugely successful in Finland, with both print runs selling out quickly. “It was not only appreciated by knitters, but many wanted to buy it just to admire the designs as they were all pieces of art!” says Linda. For each issue sold, Novita donates 1 to the charity Lastenklinikan Kummit Ry, which supports children’s mental health.
“We are very happy to be able to support such an important cause especially as the Covid-19 pandemic has been so traumatic for children and families,” says Linda.