Clever Cushions

I always love seeing projects made from KimoYes fabrics. There are so many clever people around Australia- in fact the world, who put the fabrics to such wonderful use.

One of these people is Janine Kingston, of Perth. Janine, a long time KimoYes customer, has the knack of putting together "unlikely" fabrics to create something special. I got a real thrill to see how she mixed sophisticated silk shibori fabrics with the colourful girls' kimono synthetics and topped of with 1940s rayons. It takes a certain mixture of bravery and talent to work with these fabrics, but the results are so rewarding. I've "pinched" these images, with Janine's permission, from the blog of her local fabric store, so you might like to visit it to find out more and to see the wonderful kimono fabric quilt that Janine is working on.

KimoYes Fabric In Action!

Last October (yes, I know, I'm still catching up!),  Australian Patchwork and Quilting published a beautiful quilt pattern by well known Sydney quilter and quilt teacher, Chris Jurd. I am particularly interested in this quilt, not only for its intricate design and use of colour, but the incorporation of some KimoYes silks, rayons and cotton yukatas. The central medallion, for example, is an interesting 1940s kimono silk ( or perhaps rayon - I can't quite remember). Similarly, the quilt borders are make up of some unusual cotton yukata, some fabric from a girl's kimono, kimono silks and so on. I have found that so many quilters will not deviate from the traditional quilting cottons and it is so refreshing to see what Chris has done with such an array of fabrics. What do you think?

It is really worth following  Chris' blog . Her work is extraordinary and, as you can see, she is very much at ease working with unique fabrics.

New Year's Resolution!

Yes, I know, we all say it. However, after a quiet KimoYes blog for the last half of 2010, it is time for me to get moving.  For me, last year was a time of both work and reflection. I recently resigned from a 25 teaching career and can now devote more time to the things that I really love and feel passionate about.


The new year also got off to a good start because I've been able to upload some beautiful things to the KimoYes website.  A few months ago I added a new category on the website, obi bolts. These are bolts of fabric intended to be used to make various types of obi, although a few are, in fact, obi that have been unpicked and rolled. The long lengths are great for table runners, upholstery and other home decor. The last few that I uploaded today, however, would make great additions to wedding gowns or tables. The gorgeous cream silk is elaborately woven with gold and silver threads. Just beautiful!

Check out our other beautiful obi fabric bolts - I'm sure that you will find the experience to be inspirational.