You are a super talented designer are you self taught?
Thanks! I have an MA from Aalto University where I studied graphic design. I've also studied at the Tama Art University in Tokyo and Bergen Academy of Art and Design. I started my own studio in 2013 but have worked as a freelancer since I was a student.
What inspires your work?
Changes of the season, creative people, materials, colours and shapes.
And Rainy Days?
For me Rainy Days is playful, simple and friendly, I was thinking of rainy days in the garden and the coziness of watching rain from inside. I wanted to bring Yawn a kind of a calm, focused moment with a playful touch. The acorns you may find hidden in the print are like little treasures in the garden. From concept to execution I was working simultaneously with alternative patterns but I think it took about a week to create Rainy Days.
Was this your first nightwear collection?
I have designed prints for clothing before but not for nightwear, it was a very cosy
assignment. This was my first collaboration with YCN.
Do you have a favourite Yawn PJ set?
It would be Cat Nap because I love cats!
Yawn is a brand all about relaxation, how do you relax?
I go for a long walk, running in the forest or biking to some place new. I also love to go to sauna, of course, and to go swimming in the lake. This time of the year we also go mushroom or berry picking in the forests near Helsinki. But I also like to just stay home and make some good food with my husband. I think it helps if you do something physical or some kind of meditative thing where you have to concentrate and you can forget all the other things.
What’s next for Hanna Konola...
I hope there are many inspiring collaborations to come and I keep making my own prints and other products too. Right now I'm working for things for Christmas.
You can keep up with Hanna's work at www.hannakonola.com
You can shop the exclusive Rainy Days collection here.