Journey.

On Journey
This purchase has been a long time in the making. I first learned about Journey when I purchased Happy Sunday. I think it's by the same author or same group of artists. Honestly, I'm not entirely certain. As it turns out, it was out of print. I've been keeping my eye on the used book section of Amazon Japan. They often have copies for just $3-7, but rarely from vendors who ship internationally. When one finally sprung up after months of patient waiting, I pounced on it. Many out-of-print craft books show up on Amazon Japan for reasonable prices. Often they are in top nick. This one was pristine.

The book is beautiful. I was tempted to show you more, but as the title implies each page truly is a Journey.  There are thirty-two tote and bag projects made using a variety of techniques including sewing, stamping, screen printing and embroidery. As much as I'm tempted to show you what's inside, this is really one of those rare opportunities where owning a book gives you a sense of discovery at each turn of the page . I wouldn't want to deprive anyone of the same wonderful experience that I've had. So unless (until?) I make projects from the book, I'm going to keep it under wraps.

On Books
There seems to be a bit of confusion and an assumption that I dislike all publications. I want to clear that up. It's certainly not the case. I'm simply disheartened by the slew of rushed books with under-compensated authors that have come out recently. I'm taken aback when I see the same five projects again and again in books, repackaged with newer fabric. I've heard lots of people clamoring for something informative; something different. Thankfully there are still many new, different and helpful books being written. Aces to those authors who are willing to take the time to give us something new, special and technically helpful. Aces to the publishers who adequately compensate and reward them which in turn leads to better quality books by talented and knowledgeable authors.

So I do own some books. Some very good books in fact. I think my collection is relatively small, but it's good. I've collated my blog posts about them into a single page at the top of my blog known as MyBookshelf.  I've listed the books I truly love and would recommend. I'll be adding Journey to that list soon.

In the spirit of disclosure, some of the books link to Amazon.com.  When you follow these links and buy products, I make a wee bit of money. I do mean a wee bit. It's really just enough to help cover my blogging income tax. I feel I should mention it though and explain I'm not promoting random books to raise money. These are books that I genuinely love and are part of my crafty arsenal. I like them, and I hope you like them too.