philosophy

Considered Objects is a thoughtful proposal for a design solution for the times, free of previous conventions, respecting contributions of beauty, past and future, memory, and modernity—an exploration of handcraft, textile developments, and artisanal processes. Sara Sakanaka, founder and creator of the label, explores how heritage and personal history can be passed down from generation to generation through the tradition of textiles.

Sara’s broad practice is based on exploration through experimentation, hand-sewn techniques, and the creative process by combining antique, vintage kimono, and reclaimed textiles. By trusting her intuition and following the guidance of the materials, she approaches her work with a profound sense of personal connection and meaning. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, personalized, and has its own identity. There are “hidden” details for the wearer to enjoy that are not visible to the eye. Sara believes in creating pieces with an emotional and nostalgic value, forming an eternal companionship with their wearers.  

The studio is based in Brooklyn, New York.

process

Sara devotes countless hours and skilled hand labor to each phase of the process. With the care of a conservationist and a design-led approach, she gently undoes the threads from each kimono she takes apart. Each element is preserved and documented in dissecting and reconstructing panel by panel. By assembling these panels and remnants into uniquely re-engineered textiles, she creates “new” fabric panels by hand. Sara aims to keep the original details, seams, and soul intact. The process involves finding creative ways to reuse these re-engineered textiles artfully and functionally, resulting in one-of-a-kind items. While embracing this zero-waste philosophy, Sara explores various textile treatments, hand-sewn techniques, and artisanal processes.

Repurposing a treasured garment is a form of healing and nurturing for Sara. Each kimono embodies time-honored traditions, memories, and history. Sara's visible acts of care, mending, and handwork preserve and memorialize the textile, artisanship, and countless hours of creation for the wearer to treasure in the spirit of preservation. The slowness of the work is driven by meaning, intention, and a genuine desire to revive the culture of connection, gratitude, and care for people, resources, and clothing made by hand for a better future.