Trinkets

I couldn't go to Japan without getting a few small trinkets just for me. Here's a little of what I picked up along the way.


New washi tape patterns. Be still my heart, it's argyle and crosses. Better yet, you can tear off a piece and then align it next to itself for large repeating patterns. Hands down the best washi patterns yet.

I had seen Kate use the recipe fabric in another colourway for the Urban Swap and I decided I better buy some when I realized she was quite likely not making that tea towel for me... Oh how I wish it were for me.

The wooden buttons came from a store called On Travelling in Nippori which is set off the main Fabric Street in Fabric Town. It's a rare treat in Nippori where the shelves are tidy and styled. I may have photos of it later, but I would say it's one of the only shops in Nippori worth visiting (more on that later too). The buttons with ring of miniature holes are designed so you can weave embroidery floss through the holes creating a little running stitch outlining the button. I have some completed ones but they seem to be wandering with my typewriter keys.

Sometimes I get ideas in my head and can't let them go. I convinced myself while I was in Japan that I would be making several dozen fabric baskets. Given that I've collectively made exactly zero in my days of sewing, I'm not sure why I thought I'd be making that many. In any case, I decided to load up on gorgeous straps just in case. The red and light blue are set aside for some kids baskets, the blue dots are going to be paired with forest night. The thickest green one is Echino and I dare say a bit dear and indulgent. I'm hoping to make a messenger bag with it one day.

It's all set against 2010 Nani Iro double gauze in aqua and red. This print is called Pocho by Naomi Ito. It was gorgeous. I didn't want to leave it behind. I brought home two meters and soon realized that I have no idea how to work with double gauze or what to use it for. Where is mother inspiration when you need her? I'm going to stew on it for a bit, but it may end up in the shop.

And with this piece of fabric, my new illustration affair began with Shinzi Katoh. It's vintage green like an old kitchen mixer. It had pops of orange and yellow. There are bicycles and umbrellas and gumboots. Oh my!

Shinzi Katoh goods are quite common in Tokyo in shops like Tokyu Hands and Loft. Little bento boxes and bags in also sorts of fairytale designs. It was chance that brought me straight to the Shinzi Katoh Concept Store which is in Sunshine City, Ikebukuro, Tokyo.

There, I found these nesting boxes with the most charming Little Red yet. I don't think I could rave enough about Shinzi Katoh's illustrations, so instead I'm just going to send you over to the online store for a peek.

There's a few more trinkets scattered around and more fabric coming via Japan Post. Tokyo is a lovely trip. Lovely indeed.