Omiage Inspiration

I want to share what is, for my crafting, the single most inspiring book I have ever read (brace yourself for a bit of a plug, it's worth it),

Omiage is the Japanese art of fabric folding, sister to the paper folding art of Origami. It also refers to the Japanese traditions of gift giving. The book is by Kumiko Sudo, and it contains 43 original design projects for everything from little dolls, flower shaped purses and pouches, incense holders, pincushions and little animals. Each one is absolutely gorgeous. The photography is beautiful, the colours are rich, the fabric combinations are genius and the projects are great for using up your smaller bits of fabric. The directions are simple and easy to follow, even for people like me who are allergic to direction-following!

"Enter the world of things tiny but delightful. I find that it is the most intricate of details that the artistry of Japanese craftsmanship is most evident. No matter how small, a gift made from fabric is the most intimate I can give. It is made with the hands, but the good wishes it carries come only from the heart."

Kumiko Sudo

And as if that wasn't fabulous enough, this little gem is winging it's way to me as we speak, and I have a feeling it might be similarly inspiring. I'll be sure to let you know.