Linen, Wool, Cotton: 25 Simple Projects to Sew with Natural Fabrics (Make Good: Crafts + Life) [Paperback]

Akiko Mano (Author)

Book Description

Release date: April 14, 2009 | Series: Make Good: Crafts + Life

Sewing with all-natural fabrics can make an incredible difference in the quality of the items we make, with a look and feel that provides the ultimate in comfort. The twenty-five simple sewing projects in this book offer home accessories made from linen, wool, and cotton, from durable linen aprons to cozy wool blankets and washable cotton lunch bags.

This book is full of beautiful photographs, clear step-by-step instruction, and detailed diagrams that are reflective of the Japanese craft style. All of the projects are perfect for those new to sewing, yet the unsophisticated charm and useful nature of each item will appeal to every sewer.

Make the projects in this book and add a little bit of comfort and style to your home.

Projects include:


   • Linen: Sarong Apron, Handkerchief, Slouch Bag, Hand Towel, Wastebasket Cover, Duvet Cover, Pillow Case, Kitchen Cloth, Fruit Bag, Apron
   • Wool: Muffler, Socks, Room Shoes, Blanket, Bottle  Cover, Lap Blanket, Messenger’s Bag
   • Cotton: Jumper, Wall Pocket, Bath Mat, Small Bag, Sweets Mat, Lingerie Case, Lunch Bag, Parent and Child’s Bag

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Akiko Mano is president of JAMJAM, a brand of handmade children's clothing and accessories. Her unpretentiously styled clothing, made with natural materials, has garnered a great deal of attention, and her creations are often featured at promotional events and in magazines. She lives in Japan.

Product Details

• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Roost Books; First English Edition edition (April 14, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1590306481
• ISBN-13: 978-1590306482
• Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 0.3 x 9.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #171,451 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

22 of 22 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars Well, if there was an errata page, I would have given it a 5 May 10, 2009

By fibercontent

Format:Paperback

I love the look of this book, but, when I sewed the Slouch Bag, there was something wrong when I got to the handles on Step 4. I looked online for help and found a couple of blogs where others had the same problem. I am an experienced crafter and was able to figure it out for myself, but I think the publisher should have had a page to address the problems.

It is s gorgeous book and I am inspired by the lovely projects. I know I will make more things, but I will be wary.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful

2.0 out of 5 stars Pretty but... April 22, 2010

By Jane

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

I do wish that Akiko had put as much time and effort in the patterns as the photography. I purchased the book after seeing the picture of the slouch bag on the internet. There is a glaring error involving the attachment of the handles. Step 4 requires sewing on the top bands with a 3/8th inch seam. Step 6 then has you insert the handles between the bands and sew 3/8th of an inch from the edge along the top. Obviously, following the directions would result in the handles not being attached since the handles can only be inserted between the two sewn on bands that already have been sewing on 3/8th of an inch from the top. Unfortunately I followed the directions up to the point of inserting the handles without thinking this through. Now, despite an adjustment, I am not feeling great about the security of the handles for carrying heavier items. In addition, the handles turn out to be too small. I suspected they would, but decided to go with the pattern and hope for the best. I am comparatively small and lean. The handles barely accommodate my shoulder.

Since I have enough sewing experience, I have figured out how to overcome the inadequacies of the band pieces for the next time. I would not suggest a newby attempt this without some assistance in adjusting the pattern. At the very least, line up the handles WITH the top band pieces and sew them on together with a 3/8th seam.

Frankly, had I just created my own pattern and assembly plan from the original picture I saw, it would have been a far easier and more successful experience--and I am NOT a super-experienced sewer.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars Lovely book December 11, 2009

By Amber

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

Lovely simple sewing ideas. I love the instructions to make a handkerchief and kitchen towels. I am always disappointed with kitchen towels bought in local retail stores. Homemade towels make such a difference in absorbency and appearance. There is also patterns for duvet cover, pillowcases, apron and much more.