Oct 12
Zakka, a Japanese term meaning many things or miscellaneous goods, has evolved into a universal design style that embodies simple charm and a homemade aesthetic. This book showcases projects by fiber artists from around the globe who share this zakka style. The 24 projects comprise bags and totes in a variety of shapes and sizes as well as simple and sweet items like a pencil case, sewing kit, pincushion, patchwork ribbon, and picture frames.Coleman-Hale, who also writes the blog I Heart Linen, demonstrates her affection for linen and the role it plays in Zakka Style: all the projects incorporate the natural fabric and exude an organic, homemade feel true to zakka.
* International Quilt Festival Magazine *
March 12
If Scandinavian design doesn't appeal, perhaps you'll find this collection of projects in Japanese style more enticing. he term zakka has been loosely translated to mean miscellaneous goods or sundries, but in the craft world it has become synonymous with a kind of simle charm and uniqueness - somethng handmade that is useful and pleasing. 24 designers have each contributed a project, and they include a pincushion, pencil case, mug rug, messenger bag, pot holder, bookmark, coin purse and pillowcase. The instructions seem quite detailed and they're illustrated with diagrams and close-up photographs, as required. This book is another wonderul source for gift ideas and sweet little kinck-knacks to make just because.
* Australian Homespun *
March 12
At first I was disappointed that not all the projects were by Rashida as she is one of my favourite designers in the industry and I loved her first book 'I Love Patchwork'. However, this book brings together many artists and projects with a common theme of 'Zakka' style, that touch of Japanese flair. I'm sure you'll find lots of things you want to make or adapt. There are lots of possibilities here. I love all the projects on the cover and that mix of linen and patterned fabric is just adorable and makes me think of so many possibilities. You'll learn about each of the artists and discover some great blogs to follow on the way. Projects include quilted magnets, a pretty linen bag, a house pouch and great ideas for the kitchen and home. Great photos, great instructions and inspirational are words I would use to describe this book.
* Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *
Feb 14
Zakka, a booming fashion and design phenomenon that has spread from Japan throughout Asia and to the Western world, is hard to define, so there is a touch of mystery about it, just like the Japanese tea-drinking ceremony. If we, like Wikipedia, describe Zakka as anything and everything that improves your home, life and appearance, then this hardly narrows it down. And there is something about the detail, something stylish, self-expressive, almost spiritually simplistic, that makes Zakka stand apart from plain kitsch. Design Collective's Zakka Style goes some way towards removing the exclusivity that such design phenomena tend to exert, without ruining the special slightly secretive nature that is often associated with any new craft movement. Via its 24 projects, submitted by crafters the world over, it will introduce you to the colours, motifs and inspiration - often Nordic, contemporary and past - of the movement, and encourage you to develop your own unique interpretation. Whether you plan to make a messenger bag, mug rug, or quilt block magnets, all your homespun creations can become just that little bit extra-special, when you apply Zakka style. http://www.mumtopia.blogspot.co.uk/
* Mumtopia *
