Meet the Maker of Our TENCEL™ Mini Jeans
Chananwat Munkong, who goes by the nickname Ken, is a Bangkok-based independent denim designer and the man behind our TENCEL™ mini jeans and jackets. We first worked with him in 2019 for our Hardwear collection of workwear-inspired pieces, and we’ve been collaborating since.
While his specialty is physically small denim, what also makes Ken’s creations special is small-batch production; he keeps his runs between 50 and 100 pieces. He also designed a special version of the TENCEL™ mini jean in collaboration with Endrime’s Mohsin Sajid.
The mini jeans and mini jean jackets have traveled the world, coming along with our team to various shows and trips. These tiny garments have also gone global courtesy of our denim friends.
Carved in Blue connected with Ken to hear more about his denim preferences and making denim in mini sizes.
Carved in Blue: Thailand has a huge vintage denim scene. Do you wear raw denim and enjoy wearing it in hot weather?
Ken: I like raw jeans. But if it’s hot, I throw it in the basket. And I like vintage jeans.
Carved in Blue: When did your interest in mini jeans and other mini garments start?
Ken: I became interested in mini jeans around 2015. I had a piece of denim. I thought it could do something. So there was an idea to make mini jeans. I made a friend one piece. He said it’s cute to try and sell. So I started practicing my sewing skills and started selling in 2016.
Carved in Blue: Did you enjoy making denim from TENCEL ™?
Ken: I am very proud and happy to work with you. Thank you so much for making it possible for everyone to see the small work and go international.
Craved in Blue: What’s your favorite denim you use when making mini jeans? Heavy 14 oz or lightweight denim (8-10 oz)?
Ken: I like all denim—the mini jeans are 14 oz and the mini jacket is made with 8-10 oz.
Carved in Blue: How many hours does it take to make mini jean or jacket?
Ken: About three to four hours for mini jeans, and about four to five hours for a mini jacket.
Carved in Blue: What other products mini denim styles do you hope to make in future?
Ken: I will make products about what I like and find new ideas.
For more of Ken’s denim creations, you can find him on Instagram @keng177.