Making Kimono and Japanese Clothes

by Jenni Dobson

Any dressmaker, quilter, or embroiderer who has ever felt inspired by the elegant design of Japanese clothes will find everything needed to start stitching in this comprehensive and luxurious sourcebook. In addition to colorful photos and illustrations that provide a history of the kimono and other Japanese garments, there are patterns, practical diagrams, and instructions for assembly. Each style receives loving attention, with something for kimonos for men, women, and children; mompe , the traditional trousers worn by both sexes; the short versions of kimono known as hippari and jimbei ; and waistcoats, including a child’s chan-chanko . The information on decorative stitching, adding motifs, dying the fabric, silk painting, and the Japanese sense of aesthetics provide invaluable guidance in constructing the final piece.

Genres: Sewing, Crafts, Art, Japan, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Ivory · Rating 2 out of 5]

it’s giving orientalism

Much of the sourcing seems to be from historical garments, and the process and reasoning inferred from the construction. From the wording, I wonder if the author actually spoke to any Japanese person during research or writing.

[Cymiki · Rating 4 out of 5]

great book when the time is right to tackle making a piece of clothing........