I am always excited to flip through pattern and sewing books, but recently, I had the opportunity to explore Amy Morinaka's new book, Zakka Handmades. It's a charming book with great patterns that utilize various techniques in order to create all things zakka.
Now, I have to admit, that I have seen the term "zakka," and wasn't completely certain what it meant until I read Amy's book. Perhaps you already know what it means, but in case you don't, "zakka" is a Japanese term that refers to the items you use on a daily basis - "necessities of everyday life," as Amy puts it. Zakka is all about practical items that we each use as part of our daily lives.
Amy Morinaka has brought together some of her favorite handwork techniques - sewing, embroidery, quilting, crocheting, stamping (there are instructions for how to carve your own), and appliqué - in order to provide her readers with fresh and new ways to infuse their uniqueness into handmade zakka. The patterns are easy to follow and each project comes together fairly quickly. The patterns range from scarves and wearables to home organization, baby, and kitchen accessories.
I found many of the patterns in the book great projects for some small fabric pieces and scraps that I couldn't bring myself to part with. It was difficult to pick just a few projects to make, because I definitely want to make everything in the book, but I decided to make the stamped lavender sachet, rice therapy eye pillow, kotori zipper pouches, and raindrops tote. It's a cheerful and inspirational book with instructions on how to mix natural fibers with fun embellishments AND we are giving a copy away to one lucky reader!
See you back in two weeks for our usual Tutorial Tuesday.
Have a happy day!
