Customer Reviews

Japanese Kimekomi: Fast, Fun, and Fabulous Fabric Handballs!

5 star:		(14)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I can't believe this book has been out for several months and no one did a review yet! I LOVED "Patchwork Puzzle Balls", bought a book on Temari (the threaded balls) and didn't like that one bit. Kimekomi - Japanese for "tuck in" - is very cool and fast fun if you're into instant gratification! :) Also called quilt balls, these make fun tree ornaments or bowl/table accents.

The short version? Take a smooth foam ball, use a hot knife to cut your crevices/tuck lines, cut little fabric shapes slightly larger than the lined areas, and you guessed it, tuck it in the slit! My first attempts using an exacto knife and a butter knife for tucking came out OK but had the down comforter puffy look. Do it the "right" way with a hot knife and tucking tool and it comes out a thousand times better, neater, and smooth like the photos.

Tool & Supply tips:

A "hot knife" is basically a not-so-sharp exacto knife tip on either a woodburning tool or the mini craft iron II, you might even have it already if you own either of those tools. Makes a nice, straight and smooth cut in the styrofoam ball. That was a new tool term for me so I went running around looking for something by that name before having a Duh! moment.

plasteelcorp sells smooth foam balls, any size will do, just remember bigger=heavier if you're doing Christmas ornaments! Up to 6" should be fine unless your tree is really wimpy or you go nuts with the glue and ribbons on top! Majority of book patterns call for 3" balls if you want to be ready when your book arrives.

Web search for Kimekomi "tucking tool", or "tucking spatula" and they are common enough. I got one for $5.50 + S&H

I hope you give the book a try, have fun!

Barbara and Kathy have created a wonderful book that is easy to understand. The incredible fabrics, ribbons, and other embellisments available today are just made for this art form. The detailed instructions, diagrams and templates allow you to create beautiful balls from the start. Because your working with smaller pieces of fabric, it's a great way to use up fabric "scraps" you have left from other projects. I think quilters would really enjoy this!

You should also check out Barbara's other book, "Japanese Temari: A Colorful Spin on an Ancient Craft". I also have this one and love it. Temari and Kimekomi compliment each other and look stunning when grouped together.

KJ Wilson

Just love the book. The instructions are easy to read and understand for beginners and once you make one, you want to continue to do move.

The pictures are vibrant and fabric chosen draws you into the book to learn more.

Also a good book to have on your coffee table.

This is the second book that Barb Suess has done and as with the first she has done a splendid job of giving good, clear instructions. Her passion for her craft shows through as well. The pictures are beautiful. This book is a great addition to any craft library.

This book is wonderful! With clear directions and patterns you can create a masterpiece in one evening on your first try. It's fun and easy. I am very pleased with my first project and will be doing many more. It's a great opportunity to use my left over fabric scraps to make something beautiful. Being an experienced crafter, I already had most of the supplies and tools on hand. But this book is good for a beginner, too. It is a non-sewing project for those who do not sew and the results are elegant decorations for your home at a low cost. These fabric balls will make good gifts for the holidays.

I'm very pleased with the condition of my Kemikome book. Also pleased with how quick it was sent to me

Japanese Kimekomi: Fast, Fun, and Fabulous Fabric Handballs!
Service Excellent, like wise product. I am most satisfied. Thank you. The dear lady I bought it for is delighted and has already started on a product.

I have read the book thoroughly. The directions seem quite clear with good pictures. Any day now I am going to attempt to make one!

Japanese Kimekomi: Fast, Fun, and Fabulous Fabric Handballs!
This is a beautiful book with clear instructions. I can't wait to make some of these beautiful handballs to put in a bowl.

I hesitated to buy a used book since I couldn't see the condition. Wow, what a buy. It was as if it had never been read. Since Prime shipping was available I saved at least $12.