Some of our pieces are inspired by impressions we grew up with – shapes seen in festival garments, rhythms felt in woven textures, or stories passed on quietly. Rather than recreate anything directly, we let memory guide our process. Each piece is a modern interpretation, rooted in personal experience.

Yes, for select series, we work in close dialogue with makers from our hometown region. These collaborations are built slowly – through mutual respect, shared learning, and clear acknowledgment. We believe in celebrating the hands behind the work, and giving back whenever possible.

We are not. We're designers born and raised in Yunnan – one of the most culturally rich and diverse regions in China, home to 25 officially recognized minority groups. In the communities we grew up in, different cultures were never far. Many of our relatives, friends, and neighbors come from various ethnic backgrounds. Except for a few remote groups, most communities in Yunnan have long lived in close contact – sharing customs, blending festivals, and influencing one another across generations.That atmosphere – of quiet coexistence and creative fusion – shaped our design instincts in ways we're still discovering.

We return to Yunnan regularly to gather inspiration, visit local communities, and connect with artisans whose techniques continue to shape our work. Design takes shape in our LA studio, where ideas take form through a modern lens. Depending on the series, pieces are either handcrafted in collaboration with makers in China, or assembled through trusted partners. Every detail is considered with care — from thread to finish.

YarnGi is a home for stories. Some come from the hills where we grew up. Others come from the way materials move through our hands now. We don't see culture and lifestyle as separate – we see them as quietly woven into the same fabric.