In this interview, we speak with Chilean born Yasna who runs Passionis Verae in Amsterdam, a knitting studio that makes fashion accessories from natural wool and fibers.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I am Chilean by birth, Spanish by adoption, and a happy resident in The Netherlands.
What is the story behind Passionis Verae?
As a child, I grew up in a textile town where everything was infused with wool. Our clothes, homes, and hobbies were all marked by this material. Learning to knit came at the same time as learning to read and write!
What is your favorite Passionis Verae item? Why?
I started making a hat for myself when I arrived in Amsterdam from Malaga, Spain, because of the cold and because I use the bicycle, it was very necessary for me, and I remembered… how much my hands liked to knit!! Then I continued with the scarf and that’s how Passionis Verae began!!
Do you have a favorite spot in Amsterdam? Why / What does it represent to you?
I am always a tourist in Amsterdam. The whole country seems charming to me. I love photographing places, cycling, and walking in the big beautiful parks in the surroundings like De Bretten or Spaarnwoude. I feel in contact with nature.
What does local craftsmanship mean to you?
It is one of the aspects that I like the most about this country. It gives me the opportunity to develop my passion and that of many people who, like me, can show their talents.
The best book you’ve ever read?
A couple of books that changed the way I see things and rethink the future were “Simplify your life” by Elaine St. James and “Simply Abundance” by Sarah Ban Breathnach.
What is your favorite place out of all the places you have traveled to?
I have a deep appreciation for Amsterdam, Haarlem, Madrid, Malaga, Tenerife, and Tomé because I have lived in all of them and because I have their traces on my skin.