05/30/2026
This will be a lengthy post. Last year, I attended Welcome Edition in Paris - it’s always a chaotic affair, and I usually just seek out the few brands I need to see, and leave as quickly as possible - it’s overwhelming. Last June, however I lingered at one particular booth, drawn to fabrics I’d never seen before. The name of the brand was called DEVISE FACTORY and despite extensive experience with Japanese knitwear, was one I’d never come across.
DEVISE has existed for more than 20 years, but this was their first intentional trade show. We got to talking for a half hour or so - they immediately treated me like family, and passionately explained to me their two signature fabrics. We have stayed in touch since last summer, trying to figure out a way to work together. Finally, we’re doing so.
We are incredibly proud to be their first intentional stockist - DEVISE is a family-run company and workshop based in Osaka, Japan producing knitwear we’ve truly never seen before. They have two signature fabrics - the first is a heavy and supple cotton (66%) and rayon (34%) loopwheeled fabric made in Wakayama made in loopwheel machines. The rayon gives the fabric a slight sheen, a very elegant drape, and a great base for their lovely garment-dyeing.
The Tompkins knit fabric is something else altogether, and truly like nothing we’ve ever seen. The fabric is produced on a Tompkins Upright Rotary Knitting Machine, produced in the 1860s. These are extremely rare - current estimates place the number at 5-10 working machines worldwide. DEVISE works with dedicated craftsmen in China, refining the knitting and yarn specs over the years. They’ve mastered the art with the Tompkins knit fabrics - we’re willing to bet you’ve never felt anything like this - soft and very airy and stretchy with a very dry hand but tons of slub. These have a feel more akin to proper knitwear than t shirts. They are truly unique and there’s literally no analogue for these. Online soon, but a screen isn’t the way to experience these. We’ve got 6 styles, come try them!
