From a series of fabrics that feature traditional Japanese motifs with pop sensibilities, the Kokeshi design was selected for today’s bag project. Yumi Kanaya is the creator of this lovely bag.

We interviewed Ms. Kanaya about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think about the fabric you used for this project?。
YK(Ms.Yumi Kanaya): When I first saw the photo of the fabric, the Kokeshi design looked small but it was actually a lot bigger than I thought. I found the use of the colors really bold. Because of the Kokeshi motif, I initially thought of creating something with a Japanese feel. After actually seeing the fabric, my idea changed. The colors are somewhat Scandinavian, so I made something cute and girly.

KF: Can you tell us about any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
YK: Utilizing the big design motifs, I created a large-size bag. Bamboo handles add Japanese taste, while pink gingham check and black Torchon lace bring out its cuteness. It is a handbag with many gathering as a design accent. To keep the delicate and puffy look of the gathering, a thin interfacing is adhered to make it more durable. It is also wide and can hold a lot for its size. Inside pocket is convenient for carrying small items.

KF: What are some tips for making this bag?
YK: It may look difficult to make with gathering and gusset, however it is very easy. You don’t even need a pattern and the fabric is hardly wasted. You only need to cut the fabric to squares and it requires simple straight stitches. There is no need for basting. Once you feel comfortable, you may skip using the pins. To make this go smoothly, the important thing is the preparation. When cutting the fabric, make sure you measure it precisely. Iron the fabric to keep the shape as you go through each step. Also keep the width of the seam allowance consistent while stitching. Lastly, please be careful with the direction of the print so that the design will not be upside down.

KF: How should we use this bag in everyday settings?
YK: Of course it is great for an everyday use. In addition, this bag can go well with Japanese kimono. It will be unique with an antique kimono or look girly with outfits in natural color tones.

KF: Thank you very much, Ms. Kanaya! Here are sewing instructions along with step by step photos from her. Enjoy crafting! Drawstring bag is shown here

Instructions: How to make Puffy bag

1.

Cut the outer bag fabrics.

2.

Cut the torchon lace to match the length of the front outer bag fabric.
3.

Place the torchon lace at 0.5cm from the edge of the gingham check fabric and stitch over.

4.

With front/outer sides facing each other, put the check fabric from Step 3 and Kokeshi fabric together. Run a stitch next to the stitch line from Step 3, as close to the edge as possible. (By doing so, the lace will look clean and consistent with maximum areas showing.)

5.

Attach the lace to both edges and press down the seam using an iron. Make sure that Kokeshi design is facing the right direction.

6.

Adhere interfacing on the back of the fabric from Step 5. Make it about 3cm short of the outer side. This will reduce the thickness when attaching the handle.

7.


Cut the lining fabric. Cut the pocket sideways. Attach interfacing only to the pocket fabric. To make a loop, fold the pocket fabric in half, fold in the sides and sew onto the lining fabric. The opening of the pocket should be at 8cm from the top edge.

8.

Lining bag fabric is placed over the outer fabric. (Please don’t be concerned that the lining fabric is shorter than the outer bag.)

9.

Fold the outer bag in half. From the fold line (at the bottom), sew for 25cm. Leave the top side open without sewing. Sew the other side edge. Repeat the process for the lining fabric, except you only sew 24cm from the fold line (at the bottom). (By keeping the lining shorter, it will fit perfectly inside and have a clean look).

10.

Cut off the corner edge of the bottom fold line in a square (5cm x 6cm). (This will make the gusset). Repeat the process for the lining fabric.

11.

Open the cut area to a triangle shape and sew the gusset. Repeat the same process on the lining fabric.

12.

With front/outer sides facing outside, fold the top side opening inside and stitch over to piece them together.

13.

Double fold the top opening at 3cm and press with an iron. (this will cover up the inside lining.)

14.

Place the bottom of the bamboo handle at the top opening and wrap around with the folded fabric. Run a stitch over the opening to secure the handle. Since the length of the fabric is a lot longer than the length of the handle, gather the fabric little by little as you run the stitch.

15.

The picture shows when both handles are attached.

16.

To reinforce and to embellish the base of the opening, attach the motif lace and button to complete.

Click here for Sewing Instructions (PDF format / A4 size)

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Today’s project is a pair of sarouel pants using a stretchy and thick grandrelle yarn knit fabric. The sarouel pants originate from the ethnic attire of the Islamic cultures. With short inseam, these pants are known for having a loose silhouette. Masumi Saito, with her second daughter as a model in the photo, is introducing her creation.

We interviewed Ms. Saito about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think about the fabric you used for this project?
MS(Ms.Masumi Saito): Since this fabric has a design that is suitable for both boys and girls, I decided not to make a skirt, but rather make a pair of unisex pants.

KF:Can you tell us about any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
MS: I tried to come up with an easy and simple design with few steps to follow.

KF:What are some tips for making these pants?
MS: With a right level of stretch, it should be easy for people who are not used to sewing a knit fabric. Make sure to use a special needle and thread for knit sewing.

KF: How should we wear these pants in everyday settings?
MS: Since the steps are easy, try to make many pairs for different occasions such as a room wear or extra change of clothes for kindergarten kids.

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

Instructions: How to make Sarouel pants

1.

Cut the fabric. Enlarge the pattern to the actual size per specifications on the PDF instruction sheet.

2.

Sew both sides and inseam. Run a zigzag stich or serge the seam allowance.

3.

With front/outer side facing each other, fold the waist fabric in half. Leaving a 1cm opening for elastic tape, sew the rest. Also fold bottom hem fabrics in half, with front/outer side facing each other. Leaving a 1cm opening for elastic tape, sew the rest.

4.

Combine the waist fabric and bottom hems with the main pants, making sure the opening for elastic tape is facing inside.

5.

Press down the waist seam allowance to the main body side. Stitch around the waist on the outside.

6.

Put the elastic tape through the waist and both bottom hems to finish.

Click here for Sewing Instructions (PDF format / A4 size)

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The first project in 2014 from Craft & Sewing is a mini purse with a drawstring bag. This project uses A toy chest, a fabric that is filled with cute and fun things from a toy box. Today’s artist is Ms. Kaori Sawa.

We interviewed Ms. Sawa about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think about the fabric you used for this project?
KS(Ms.Kaori Sawa): It is a lovely fabric that can be enjoyed by both adults and children. Since it has an appropriate thickness, I thought it would be nice to make a small bag.

KF: Can you tell us about any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
KS: Though the bag may seem small, it can hold many things like a smart phone, small wallet and a handkerchief. Inside, there is a card holder pocket and a little hook for a drawstring bag for accessories.

KF:What are some tips for making this bag?
KS: There are two tips: 1. Make sure to mark the seam lines first 2. Iron the fabrics first otherwise it will be challenging to iron later in the process when the bag is being constructed.

KF:How should we use this bag in everyday settings?
KS: It is perfect for a quick running around or for kids to carry when going out. It can also work as a bag-in-bag organizer.

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

Instructions: How to make Mini purse with a drawstring bag

1.

Per specified measurements, mark the seam lines. Cut the fabric including seam allowances.

2.

Using an iron, attach interfacing to front outer bag fabrics (two fronts and tow gussets).

3.

Sew and prepare a pocket, belt and handles.

4.

Fold the top seam allowance of the front fabric and iron.

5.

Attach a zipper. Stitch from the backside as well.

6.

Attach handles.

7.

With front/outer sides facing each other, sew the bottom. Press down the seam allowance.

8.

With front/outer sides facing each other, sew top and bottom of the front fabric and gusset. Make a cut on four corners of the seam allowance of front facing fabrics as close as possible to the seam line.

9.

Sew together the front and side gusset.

10.

Attach the pocket and belt to the lining fabric.

11.
Fold the top seam allowance (zipper attached location) of the lining fabric and iron.

12.

With front/outer sides facing each other, sew the bottom. Press down the seam allowance.

13.

Repeat the process as in Steps 8 and 9.

14.

Cut the corners of the gusset (seam allowance) in the front and back.

15.

Turn the lining fabric inside out and place the outer bag inside.

16.

Align the shape, match the corners of the outer and lining side, place zipper (front side) with lining fabric and sew with blind stitches.

17.

Turn the back inside out and finish.

18.

Make a drawstring bag.
With front/outer sides facing each other, place the fabric together.
Sew the sides, leaving the top opening portion. Double fold the seam allowance of the top opening side and sew the side from where the opening starts to the top.
Turn it inside out, put the drawstring through and finish.

Click here for Sewing Instructions (PDF format / A4 size)

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Today’s project is a cute fur scarf with a glimpse of Kitty as a design accent. A hand craft enthusiast, marimari is sharing her creative idea. A warm looking fur will be very useful in a cold weather.

We interviewed marimari about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think about the fabric you used for this project?
Marimari(m): From a series of Kitty’s fabrics, I selected one with a simple color combination in red and white. By mixing it with fur, I thought I could make a Kitty scarf that is cute yet suitable for a grownup woman. I intentionally used Kitty as a backing fabric to enjoy a gap between the front fur and peeking Kitty in the back.

KF:Can you tell us about any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
m: The quilt batting adds extra warmth. I was afraid that the Kitty fabric alone may be too simple, so different pieces of fabric are patchworked. As the size of the Kitty was larger than I thought, I added the rhinestones around Kitty’s bow to accentuate her peeking look.

KF:What are some tips for making this scarf?
m: When sewing the layered furs, try to push back the extra fur inside the fabric so that it is easier to stitch. It also helps to straighten the fur smoothly when turned over. The fur, quilt batting and Kitty’s (pieced) fabric will all be sewn together at the end. To make this process go easier and aligned, first sew the quilt batting and Kitty fabric together, before you add the fur to sew.

KF: How should we use this scarf in everyday settings?
m: It is a perfect accompaniment for your holiday dress up occasions like Christmas and a New Year’s party. By toning down the colors of your dress, this scarf can be the main motif of your style coordination. Depending on your mood, you can let the Kitty peek on the backside, or bring the backside to the front to show off the Kitty design.

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

Instructions: How to make Kitty’s Scarf in Fur

1.

Place the pattern over and cut the fabric and quilt batting. When cutting the fur, it is easier if you try to cut only the backside of the fur fabric.

2.

Prepare the pom pom embellishment tape, ribbon and rhinestones.

3.

Reverse side fabric A (17cm x 8cm) and Reverse side fabric B (17cm x 12cm), and another size Reverse side fabric A (17cm x 12cm) and Reverse side fabric B (17cm x 8cm) are placed and sewn together with front/outer sides facing each other.

4.

Place and sew together the pieced-together fabric from step 3 and Kitty fabric, with front/outer sides facing each other. Please be careful with the direction of Kitty’s face. Check the top and bottom of the faces, and sew the fabric to the bottom side of the face. The picture on the bottom shows after three pieces of the fabrics are pieced together.

5.

Place the pieces in the following order: quilt batting, Kitty fabric (front/outer side facing on top), Kitty fabric (reverse side facing on top) and another quilt batting. Pin them and sew together. The bottom picture shows after the four pieces are all sewn together.

6.

Place the pom pom embellishment over the ribbon. Change the sewing thread to red and sew them together.

7.

Place the ribbon over the fur, with the bottom of the ribbon at 10cm from the edge of the fur. Run a stitch over both top and bottom of the ribbon. Marking ribbon’s location on the back of the fur first and pin the ribbon will make this process go easier.

8.

Facing the front/outer sides with each other, sew together the fur.

9.

Securely pin together the fur fabric from Step 8 and pieced-together fabric from Step 5, aligning the stitch lines. Place and align the edges of both fabrics and pin them all around.

10.

Sew around the edges, leaving an opening for turning.

11.

Turn it inside out, using an opening for turning. Align the corner with a pointy tool like a pair of scissors.

12.

Close the opening with a blind stitch. Using a stiletto, pull out the fur and straighten the look.

13.

Using a glue gun or a craft adhesive, place the rhinestones over the ribbons on the front.

14.

To complete, using a glue gun or a craft adhesive, place the rhinestones on Kitty’s bow on the reverse side and make sure the stones looks balanced. The key is to embellish the bottom Kitty so that it can be seen when worn around the neck.

Click here for Sewing Instructions (PDF format / A4 size)

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Lesson bag in kitten design fabric　

Neko Funjatta, a fun fabric of kitty and music motifs, is perfect for making items for a new school year. The popular blogger, neige+ (aka Ms. Yuki Inomata) came up with a reversible design bag. A kitten themed charm made from a remnant will be this bag’s cute accent.

We interviewed Ms. Inomata about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think about the fabric you used for this project?
I thought, “This fabric is definitely for children” – the cute and playful piano key design makes you want to trace along the keys. Also it will be fun to carry around a bag made of this fabric. Loveable kitties are used as the lining, creating two different ways to enjoy the design of this reversible bag.

KF:Can you tell us about any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
Placing the piano keys as a main motif, I came up with a design with a sense of fun. Depending on how you lay out the fabric, the bag will look cute whichever side you choose to use as the front or outer side. The bottom is simple, yet acts as an accent with a triangle-shaped gusset. It is designed to have a similar look when reversed.

KF:What are some tips for making this bag?
Carefully notching the fabric while cutting will help the handles and other pieces to be aligned.

KF:How should we use this bag in everyday settings?
The bag with an eye-catching key pattern is perfect for carrying materials for after school lessons and used as a school music bag. It will also be handy as a library bag.

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

Instructions: How to make Lesson bag

1.

First prepare a piece of main fabric cut at 50cm. The piano key design is applied as the width of the bag. Besides the pocket, the width of the cut pieces should be 42cm. From left to right: pocket, handle, handle, tab, front/outer fabric, back fabric.

2.

Prepare the lining/inside fabric. The size is 32cm x 42cm. The fusible quilt batting should be cut at 30cm x 40cm, excluding the seam allowance. Besides the handle, add 1cm seam allowance to all cut pieces.

3.

Make the handles. Fold sideways in half, crease and open it up. Fold the top and bottom edges to the center line, then fold again, to fold in four. Run a stitch at the top and bottom.

4.

Fold the pocket in half and sew around the edges, leaving an opening for turning.

5.

Turn the pocket inside out. As shown in the picture, fold the corner as you pull out the fabric to finish with a clean edge.

6.

Attach the lace to the pocket. When sewing the pocket to the front/outer fabric, tuck the edges of the lace inside. The pocket’s opening for turning should be stitched over during this process. Using the remnant, fold it in three and create a tag to be attached on the side of the pocket.

7.

Attach the fusible quilt batting to the front/outer fabric. Make the bottom portion of the front/outer side and the lining side. Sew together the bottom with 1cm seam allowance. Notch the fabric at 3cm (including the seam allowance) from the bottom.

8.

Tuck the bottom inside and pin it to make an accordion fold. The spot where it was notched in step 7, should now be the bottom line of the bag. When spread out, it looks like the photo in step 9.

9.

Keeping the accordion fold, sew together both side edges of the front/outer fabric with 1cm seam allowance. Also sew the side edges of the lining fabric, leaving a 7cm opening for turning on one side with 1cm seam allowance.

10.

Mark a notch at the center of the front/outer fabric as well as at 6cm from both side edges. Using these notches as a guide, baste handles at 0.5cm from the top edge.

11.

Turn the front/outer fabric from step 10 inside out, and place the bag into the lining fabric. Put the opening together with front/outer sides facing each other. As seen in the photo, press down each seam allowance to other sides of each other to keep it flat. Pin the fabrics together and sew around the bag’s opening.

12.

Turn it inside out using the opening. After closing the opening, run two stitch lines around the opening of the bag to complete.

13.

The bottom portion, where it was accordion folded, will end up with a triangle gusset as in the photo. You may put a button or an embellishment there as an accent.

Click here for Sewing Instructions (PDF format / A4 size)

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