echino was featured in our very first Textile Story, and today we are happy to present echino’s newest collection, ni-co. The concept behind this line is “unisex.” The design was inspired by simple motifs and a limited use of colors. Carrying on echino’s distinct color scheme, the repeated single motif creates ni-co’s unique character. The color combination gives variation to its look and versatility.

echino’s designer, Estuko Furuya says, “Whatever the project, I recommend choosing a simple shape and design. For example, classis items like tote bags or plain small square bags would be perfect. You can also combine it with leather to make a bag or cushion cover. It would be nice to create a gift for men, who are new to design print fabrics like ni-co.”

scooter-b　JG-99700_700 cotton/linen canvas

With a slightly retro look, Scooter’s design may be suitable for men. But by combining different colors, its color variation could generate a cute and stylish look. You can also be creative using the bias pattern on the side.

Continue reading →

you might also like

echino 2016 Collection 2

echino ni-co

echino 2017 Collection

Once again, we are happy to introduce a story on nunokara, a series of KOKKA original fabrics. Its inspiration comes from the world of fairy tales with different artistic styles. For today’s article, we selected Rotkappachen (Little Red Riding-Hood). Yes, it’s the story where grandma gets eaten by a big bad wolf! The popular story for children is recreated with an etched-style graphic for grown-up tastes.

Fabric print panel　F101-1 Cotton broadcloth *Organic Cotton

A large etched-style graphic of Little Red Riding-Hood is quite eye catching. A wide lace motif at the edge creates an antique feel. You can use the Riding-Hood graphic as a cut-out and each scene of the story is perfect for making bags and cushions. The uniform color combination makes it easy to mix patterns and designs to create a stylish bag.

Continue reading →

you might also like

nunokara series #4 – MIMI & NENE

nunokara

Vintage Style Cotton Broadcloth

Here we introduce the chic fabric line depicting the good old days in Paris. Its name “Ecole de Paris” means School of Paris, which refers the group of non-French artists in Montmartre and Montparnasse in the early 20th century who released new art style and technique while having the bohemian lifestyle. By using old portraits and cursive letters, Kokka has made the fabrics recalling memories of the old Paris. The material, #8 cotton duck, is heavyweight but you can still manage to sew on a home sewing machine. No lining fabric is necessary. This durable fabric is excellent for bags.

portrait　P24200-201 #8 cotton duck

Don’t you feel as if you were in an apartment in France with framed pictures of people and the Eiffel Tower on the wall? You can use it as part of a mobile or an accent for your bag after cutting off the graphic of the photo frame.

Continue reading →

you might also like

Ruby Star Polka Dot

petit Etoile

FABRIC CARAVAN BY YURTAO

Today we feature “Musikkiste von nacht” that means “music box of the night”. This lovely fabric line is designed by the illustrator Itsuko Kawaguchi. The tale starts from a teddy bear shop in a fictional district named Carecheri Market.

As night falls, music boxes in the minds of bears are opening up.
Newborn bears generate music of expectations for the new world.
Antique bears are playing the nostalgic tunes while longing for the days with old owners. With the squeaky noises of springs and the harmony of various tunes, bears’ fun and noisy night is going on.

“I will be glad if you feel as if you have found your favorite bear at an antique teddy bear shop when you see this fabric. This fabric works well with retro-flavored projects such as a country-style basket, a fabric-covered box which an old sewing kit might be in, or a rounded bag or pouch. It is also good for home décor like bedspreads or cushions.” Kawaguchi says.

chatty bears　H5120-20 cotton/linen canvas

This is with large patterns depicting that each bear spends the night in its own way; having a cup of tea, playing a toy or reading a book. You can cut up the pieces and use them where needed.

Continue reading →

you might also like

Nordic Line

Nordic Animal　　

comfy animals

Polka dots and stripe are always popular as basic prints. Here we feature “mélange bon bon”, the fabric line which incorporated these classic patterns with multiple colors. Depending on how you cut out or combine, it will look differently. That is, you will find enjoyment of color coordination from this fabric. It is great that one fabric gives you various options and ideas for your creations. You also can enjoy colors by making small items such as scrunchies, ribbons, or covered buttons.

polka dot　P24000-400　cotton broadcloth

The simple polka dots of variable sizes are lined up in a piece of fabric. The one in the pastel colors is perfect for girlish small items. Another fabric with vivid pink and brown was inspired by kids’ clothes in Paris. A patchwork pouch with your favorite parts of this fabric must be cute, too.

Continue reading →

you might also like

Lighthearted 2

Lace Print

nastro