When people think of Japanese craft, they often think
of zakka - cute, whimsical sewing projects. But Japan
has a long history of traditional quilting as well. Yoko
Saito, a quilt artist for more than thirty years,
explores traditional folk themes in her work and
interprets them with a vintage, yet modern feel. The
projects in this book use traditional patchwork
techniques such as log cabin, hexagons, baskets, and
stars, sewn in soft sepia and taupe fabrics. Featuring
piecework, applique, machine stitching, handstitching,
and embroidery, these projects are a delight for anyone
who loves doing needlework. Nostalgic yet modern, in
soft monochromatic fabrics, the projects can be
described as Japanese-style Americana, modern country
style that's also at home in chic urban settings. A
subtle, detailed, exquisitely crafted beauty
characterizes these lovely projects. While the book
features a few large wall quilts, most of the projects
are small (albeit detailed), with appeal for quilters
who want a taste of traditional quilting without the
investment of time and labor that bed-size projects
require.Many of the projects are variations on Yoko's
popular signature fabric baskets/containers/handbags,
and there are also cushions, an apron, sewing kit, and
notions box. Paper patterns for all projects are in an
enclosed envelope in the book. While Yoko Saito"s
stitching is beautiful and meticulous, she embraces the
wabisabi concept of imperfection, using odd-shaped
pieces and quilting with a free mind, as she says, that
is not bound by conventional designs. Her respect for
the legacy of traditional quilting is apparent in her
aesthetic, yet unique and contemporary designs emerge
from her blend of stitching experience and open-minded
artistry. |
|