Designer Spotlight: Katabasis Threads (Q&A)
This week, we’ve interviewed small slow fashion creator Mikhal Jensen. Currently based out of Bellingham, Washington, they’re committed to creating clothing exclusively out of reused fabric. Their brand name, Katabasis Threads, is directly inspired by Greek mythology, referring to a descent into the Underworld. And yes – their clothing is just as cool as that name.
You can purchase their clothing through their website. Feel free to follow them on Instagram and TikTok.
Answers have been lightly edited for clarity.
How long have you been an artist, and how long have you been creating clothing?
“I’ve been creating in one capacity or another for my whole life. I have been drawing since I could hold a pencil and have done most forms of art I could get my hands on, including metalwork and glass work and music.”
What inspired you to go down this career path?
“I’ve always dressed however I pleased, which tended to be different from the norm. I decided to start making my own clothes 3 years ago when I saw upcycled blanket pants on Depop, and I haven’t stopped creating clothing since.”
Have you overcome any difficulties in your journey to becoming a small fashion designer?
“Most difficulties have come from my own motivation and financial struggles. Of course I also struggle from creative blocks every now and then but I’ve tried my best to remain consistent regardless.”
Image Source: @katabasis_threads on Instagram
You currently have over 21k Instagram followers. How do you keep your business thriving, in the face of competition from fast fashion?
“I just don’t stop creating! I’m not bound by one particular aesthetic and create whatever I feel like whenever I am inspired. I think the drastic shifts in aesthetic or style have kept my fanbase fresh and entertained throughout the years.”
Are there any tips you have for people who might want to go down the same path?
“My tip is to never stop creating. Take breaks when you need to, but never stop. Your people will find you, and you will find yourself too.”
How does your identity weave itself into your collections?
“As a lesbian, I think my brand is very inspired by queer fashion. Also, I am a classics minor and very fascinated by Greek and Roman mythology, which I incorporate into my brand from time to time.”
What does slow fashion mean to you?
“Slow fashion means appealing to timeless statements that do not engage in microtrends that will soon be discarded and out of style. Slow fashion means fair wages, connecting artists with their product, and of course combating the environmental impact of fast fashion.”
Image Source: @katabasis_threads on Instagram
What effect does sustainability have on your collections?
“Being bound by sustainability and committing to only using second hand materials means inspiration through compromise and obstacles. Being constrained by only the materials I find secondhand allows for new ideas and solutions I would never have entertained otherwise. It keeps me inspired and constantly evolving, which I think makes Katabasis unique from other small businesses.”
What are your favorite sources of inspiration?
“My favorite sources of inspiration are my fellow fashion small businesses, such as @masa.toro, @dirtbag666shop, @luisasciolli and more. Most of my inspo just comes from thrifting and scrolling social media.”
Written by Sara Traynor
Sara uses she/her pronouns. Fashion and writing are her two favorite modes of creative expression, and she loves to combine them in SFUSA. In her free time, she does crossword puzzles, reads, and watches SpongeBob.