Kanzashi in Bloom: 20 Simple Fold-and-Sew Projects to Wear and Give by Diane Gilleland
When Sister Diane announced the blog book tour for her new book, Kanzashi in Bloom: 20 Simple Fold-and-Sew Projects to Wear and Give, I contacted her via twitter to see if I could take part. You see, I have been a big fan of her CraftyPod series and have heard amazing things about her through my friend Kim Werker. Unfortunately, I was too late to participate in her blog tour, but she did have an extra copy of her book that she sent me to review – Yippee! This is my first book review, so in the words of Sister Diane herself, “Please go get yourself a nice cup of hot tea and we will get started.”
Kanzashi, pronounced Kan-za-shi, are hair ornaments used in traditional Japanese hairstyles that came into widespread use during the Edo period dating back to 1603. There are many varieties of Kanzashi and many styles of wearing them. In modern day, Kanzashi is still used by brides and geisha to indicate status and the seasons of the year.
Using folded pieces of fabric, much like origami, Diane inspires crafters and would be crafters with easy to read instructions and simple step-by-step tutorials. Beautiful images are clear and easy to follow with chapters such as ‘Origins of the Art Form’ and ‘Materials and Core Techniques’. As well as projects that teach you how to make Kanzashi for embellishment and to wear as accessories. I already have my favourites picked out such as Stretch & Bloom Headband and Tiny Blossom Earrings (below)!
image via futurecraftgirl.com
Each time I come across a new craft book, I have a habit of flipping through it and checking out all of the pictures. Then, I mark down which ones I wish to make. Looking through each pattern, I can’t believe how many alternative ways you can make each item by using a different number of petals, different fabric or using the same techniques to make butterflies and hearts.
Thank you Diane for the opportunity to review Kanzashi in Bloom and congratulations on a wonderful book!
Win your very own copy of Kanzashi in Bloom: 20 Simple Fold-and-Sew Projects to Wear and Give by Diane Gilleland by sending an email to info(at)gotcraft(dot)com subject: “giveaway".
A lucky winner will be chosen on Friday, September 11th, 2009.
Image credit: Kanzashi in Bloom / Diane Gilleland
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