Category Archives: Japan

Dot to Dot Works

March 1, 2021 12:03 AM \

Found this great idea for gift wrapping using a rattan decorative piece that we may try to make. The instructions can be found in the craft book pictured above and distributed by Japanese brand, Dot to Dot Works.  The book is in Japanese written by illustrator and handicraft artist, Horikawa Nami. We can’t read Japanese but the photos make the instructions easy to follow.

You can view more projects on her website, Facebook, Dot to Dot Instagram and Horikawa Nami Instagram.

Images:  Courtesy of Dot to Dot Works.

Posted in: craft, Handcrafted, Japan \ Tagged: , ,

Chila Bags

February 25, 2021 12:03 AM \

The Wayúu (aka Wayu) people inhabit the arid Guajira Peninsula straddling the Venezuela-Colombia border, on the Caribbean Sea coast. Weaving and crocheting make up a large part of their daily life, especially for women.  The tribe produces millions of high-quality artisan products every year playing a vital role in the local economy. They are mostly known for their woven Wayuu bags.  

Found this beautiful collection of bags from Chila Bags, Japan.  “Chila Bags” not only pays legitimate wages, but also provides livelihood support for the contracted ethnic groups.  Bags are an important source of income for the Wayuu people with large families. Purchasing bags packed with great traditions and techniques helps to protect their lifestyle. And Chila Bags ship internationally.

You can find Chila Bags on their website, Facebook and Instagram.

Images:  Courtesy of Chila Bags.

Posted in: Fair Trade, Handcrafted, Japan, Weaving \ Tagged: , , ,

Special FRESH

February 19, 2021 12:03 AM \

We like this line of handmade bags from the Japanese brand, Special FRESH.  The maker creates them with a collage of fabric scraps embellished with stitches, embroidery, appliqué and pom poms.  Each item is one-of-a-kind and impossible to mass produce.  Her line includes bags, pillows, book covers and scarves. As per most of the Japanese maker sites the creator remains unknown.  

However you can view more of her work on her website, Facebook and Instagram.  Items  can be purchased on Japanese handmade market sites, Creema, Iichi and Minne.  For overseas shipping, please contact them before purchasing. 

Images:  Courtesy of Special FRESH.

Posted in: Handcrafted, Japan, Textile \ Tagged: , ,
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