About the Author

Akemi Shibata is one of Japan’s leading quilt designers. Known for her unique and elegant style, she is the author of several books. She owns a quilt shop in Tokyo and holds workshops and lectures.

Reviews

Dec 2016 Akemi is a leading Japanese quilt designer and presents this collection of bags, pouches and accessories in her unique style, combining patchwork and quilting.  There are thirty-six projects covering totes, shoulder bags, sewing kits and tablet cases, all combining traditional Japanese taupe fabrics with colourful prints.  Full-size templates and detailed instructions enable the reader to create beautiful items to keep, or to give as special gifts.  A delightful book and excellent value for money.
*East Kent Embroiderers Guild*

Akemi loves to quilt and she has passed on her love in this book so that you can
make beautiful bags and gifts. At the beginning of the book you are given step-by-step instructions on how to quilt, patchwork, applique, binding & finishing techniques. You even get an embroidery guide with all the stitch you will use. I love that each design is unique. I also love that some of the projects are paired so you can make matching bags in different sizes. There are diagrams for each of the projects so even if you are a beginner you can still complete the projects. Akemi uses different fabrics to create beautiful designs. There really is so much to make and you will find it hard to choose which to make first. I think my favorite has to be the Hawaiian Carryall. The use of the different fabrics
with the quilted design as well really makes a beautiful bag. The bluebird basket & tea mat are great fun and I love the bird within the top of the basket. I can't wait to make the floral scissor caddy. I also want to make the pastoral wall hanging for my sheep themed room :-).  A beautiful book with beautiful designs!
*Crochet Addict UK*

Once in a while a book comes along with projects that have the edge because they stand out from the crowd. This is one of those books. It's good just to look at it. The author is a quilter and has produced 36 gorgeous projects to sew. She combines Japanese taupe with colourful quilting fabrics. Her ideas incorporate patchwork and applique to make bags, purses, sewing kits, a quilt, wall hangings, baskets, glasses case, tea mats and coasters, sewing box and pincushion. The work incorporates beautiful motifs such as flowers and animals. The instructions include many diagrams and templates are given at the back of the book along with a pull out pattern sheet. Each project clearly shows the materials needed, the cutting instructions, a diagram of work and the construction steps. You will use mainly paper piecing patchwork, quilting and applique techniques. some projects use hand embroidery. I love all the projects and I especially like all the different shapes for bags and ideas in this book. I love the three-dimensional tulips. Akemi has a master's eye for colour and design. Highly recommended.
*YarnsandFabrics.co.uk*