Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2010

“Hey, nice watch!” “Thanks. I made it myself.” Conversations such as this are commonplace in the world of “cross-stitch designer” Makoto Ozu, the brains behind the disarmingly cute Ke-Shock. “Not shock and water resistant!” declares the instruction pamphlet for these woolen-faced watches, lest you get them mixed up with Casio’s sturdier timepieces. Hey, it might happen. Ozu’s company, The Mint House, has been selling readymade Ke-Shocks at pop-up stores around Tokyo this year, but now they’ve gone one better with a DIY kit. Each set includes an adjustable strap, clock mechanism, needles and ten varieties of wool—endless possibilities, in other words.

Ke-Shock!! Kit, ¥2,625. Available via http://theminthouse.shop-pro.jp