Monthly Archives: June 2015

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Natsuki Camino (illustrator, textile designer of Törten)

The world of “Chigiri-e” shown over textile

In 2013, the Third Kokka Print Textile Competition “Inspiration” was held, and Natsuki Camino splendidly won the grand prize out of 163 entries. Recently Camino’s beautiful textile line named “Törten” made its debut, which prints are from her illustrations including the winning artwork of the competition In addition, she designed a cup and saucer bridal gift set for Barneys New York in 2012. She continues to be active by contributing her work to fashion magazines and advertisements.

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Kokka-fabric.com (KF): Could you please tell us how you became an illustrator?

I had always dreamed to become an independent artist painter while engaging in a design-related job. Painting was what I liked to do most at that time. Contemplating how to create a business out of what I liked, I wondered if painters would be in demand for book-cover design, illustration in magazine and so on. After that, I started to visit publishers to promote my works as well as held my personal exhibitions occasionally.

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motifs for good luck

Following the last column, here are Ellen Baker’s charms again. This week we introduce cotton linen series.
“The sheep are in celebration of the Year of the Sheep, and many of the other motifs are reminiscent of good luck charms.”(Ellen Baker)

Persimmons JG42200-200 Cotton/Linen Canvas
kokka-fabric.com JG42200-200_1kokka-fabric.com JG42200-200_2

The larger scale and fruit motif make this perfect for kitchen items like place mats, tablecloths, or pot holders.

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touches of gold metallic

Here are Ellen Baker’s collection, Charms.
“I wanted to continue to focus on simple geometric designs in this collection while bringing in touches of gold metallic. The double gauze cotton is made of two layers, each of them very lightweight, but the two layers together make the fabric a perfect weight for garment sewing.”(Ellen Baker)

Plus Dots JG42100-100 double gauze
kokka-fabric.com JG42100-100_1kokka-fabric.com JG42100-100_2

The double gauze prints are perfect for baby items, quilts, or clothing. This print is versatile and can be used in many ways.

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Square Bag with Straight Handles

Size: 23cm (l) x 32cm (w) x 4cm (d)

Today’s project is made with törten, a textile designed by Natsuki Camino who is a grand prize winner of the Third Kokka Print Textile Competition, “Inspiration.” Based on the ‘travel’ theme, the fabric has a design of continuous tracks. Because of this continuous motif, it adds fun to think where you want to cut. A popular blogger, Mioko Sugino is introducing her stylish creation of a square bag with orange color accent.

Design & work: Mioko Sugino(komihinata)


Fabric shown for this sample:

 (Outer bag main fabric)törten JG49100-1 (C)


Materials:
□ Fabric (Outer bag main fabric): 80cm×30cm
(Lining bag main fabric, Handles, Tag base (canvas)): 90cm×30cm
(Tag (Print)): 10cm×10cm
□ Fusible quilt batting: 80cm×30cm

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We interviewed Mioko about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think of the fabric you used for this project?
It is very stylish with a story behind it. It is cute, yet not childish and suitable for an adult. The orange in the gradation of the grey’s calm color tone creates a stylish accent. To maximize these pattern and colors, I chose a square bag that has a big surface. Every part of this textile is lovely that I had difficulty selecting a specific pattern.

KF:KF: Can you tell us any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
You can neatly place books, a schedule book or a long wallet in this square bag. With a quilt batting, a tablet device can be carried safely. As a bag-in-bag in a bigger bag or as a purse for a quick outing, this bag is very convenient.

KF:What are some tips for making this bag?
After attaching the handle, it may be a little difficult to sew as the sides become less flat. As you sew, align the shape and pin it well before you start stitching.

KF:How should we use this bag in everyday situations?
The color tones are dark, but with an orange accent, it can enhance a simple outfit. On first glance, the color and shape have a hip look. When you take a closer look, you can see a lovely design. It may be cool for a child to carry this bag.

KF:Thank you very much, Mioko! Here are sewing instructions along with step by step photos from her. Enjoy crafting!

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