Yoko Saito's reputation for precise needlework and taupe quilting have garnered her international fame. The author of numerous books, she lives in a suburb of Tokyo and is expanding her operations to France, Italy, and Taiwan. In 2008, she commemorated thirty years of creative activities with the Yoko Saito Quilt Exhibition.
I love Yoko Saito's work and she always makes me want to get sewing
straight away. This book is no exception with its wonderful
patchwork projects. Detailed step by step instructions for
patchwork and for each design are illustrated ensuring that you can
complete each project easily. There are full-size templates and
diagrams, materials needed, instructions and finished measurements.
You can choose from 10 bags, 5 pouches and 10 accessories and home
decor. The shoulder bag shown on the front cover is a favourite,
there are alternative shoulder bag patterns in the book including a
round one, but the wide tote bag is so practical, the applique bags
os pretty (especially the dragonfly one), there is also a
bucket bag. I think you would want to make all 10 bags at least
once. The pouches are good as small bags or make-up bags
and each has a different shape and style, my favourite is the
Blue flower Pouch, it is very sweet. In Accessories you will find a
drawstring bag, a passport cover, mini bag, notebook and pencil
holder, a wall hanging, two cushion covers and placemats. You'll
also find essential supplies and tools. I must say that this book
is tremendous.
*Karen Platt -yarnsandfabrics.co.uk*
Patchwork is not just for quilts; you can use the same methods to
make bags too! There are twenty-five different bags to choose from,
which make use of a whole range of patchwork and quilting methods.
From shoulder and hand bags in a number of shapes and sizes to
pouches, purses and mini bags, there is a bag for most occasions in
here. There are also place mats, cushion covers, pencil cases and
other items for the home and all in the author’s signature beige
and taupe color scheme. This book was originally published in Japan
and has a different layout, with photographs of the items at the
front and all the instructions and charts at the back. The latter
section starts with a page featuring all the supplies and tools you
will need in color, followed by several pages of line diagrams
showing all the patchwork methods you need to know. This includes
embroidery and other stitches, making and using bias binding and
other basic methods. If you are a total beginner you might find
some of this less easy to learn from than the usual Search Press
staged photographs, but those with some knowledge of the subject
ought to find the clear diagrams sufficient. Projects themselves
also feature line diagrams, comparable to the style of instructions
found in dress pattern packets only with very few words. More than
one read through before embarking on a project is a must, but
anybody who has made bags and other items before ought to be able
to work it out. They will be rewarded with some lovely pieces.
*Rachel Hyde - Myshelf.com*
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