Kristina Oja is both my name and a space where yarn becomes an idea, a garment, and a form of experimentation.

I’m a designer based in Estonia, working with textiles, knitwear, and slow fashion. I studied textile design at the Estonian Academy of Arts and have a background in women’s garment tailoring. My work is grounded in technical skill, emotional connection, and deep respect for materials.

Machine knitting has become one of my strongest skills — something I was introduced to during my studies and have continued to explore through independent learning, experimentation, and intuition. I often work with what already exists: thread ends, knitting samples, wool, and fabric scraps — materials that are typically overlooked, yet full of untold potential.

One autumn day, I heard a sentence from a podcast that stayed with me: “In a sensible household, everything that comes from the animal is used.” The phrase referred to the respectful use of all parts of the sheep — nothing was wasted. That idea of care and respect — for origin, for matter, for process — continues to shape the way I work. As a designer, I also see myself as a quiet caretaker of materials: someone who listens to what already exists and lets it guide the making.

In 2024, I was named Young Textile Designer of the Year. That same year, I also received the Mari Adamson Scholarship, awarded to the best textile student in Estonia.

When asked what I’m doing today, I’ll probably answer: I’m knitting. Knitting is a tool that leads me through the uncharted territories of existence.