Pattern Review and Giveaway: Zakka Workshop

Last month I wrote a review of Yoko Saito’s book New Classic Patchwork. I guess it was obvious how much I loved the book because that same day Lindsay from World Book Media emailed me and asked if I would like to try some of Yoko’s patterns that they have published in a series called ‘Zakka Workshop.’ She said I could offer a giveaway to my readers too!

These are the Zakka Workshop patterns she sent. They are adorable! I loved all of them and had a hard time deciding which pattern to try first. Since Amy Friend already reviewed the Patchwork House Pouch pattern, I decided to go for the House Basket.

In my stash I had some Japanese patchwork-y fabric that was perfect for the exterior of the basket. I didn’t need to go searching for lots of little prints because they were all here in this 1/2 yard. And FYI, Pellon has a tracing product that is sold next to their interfacing that came in very handy. I simply traced the templates from the booklet and used these pattern pieces to fussy cut all of my patchwork pieces. I can’t remember where my fabric came from (sorry!) but if you search for ‘Japanese Patchwork Fabric’ on etsy.com you can find some very similar fabrics.

Before starting this project I was a little bit worried about the part where I would have to sew the bottom of the basket to the sides. But it was actually very easy. The measurements provided are perfect and if you use lots of pins (see picture) and sew with the circle part on the bottom, you’ll be fine. 🙂 These pictures show how I sewed the lining bottom to the lining sides.

Once finished, I couldn’t help turning and turning…

and turning to basket to see all my cute houses! I can’t decide which one I like best.

This is one little project I’m keeping for myself. It’s my new pearle cotton basket!

Would you like to win a pattern from the Zakka Workshop series? Simply check them all out {here} and leave a comment below saying which one you would like to win. On the evening of Monday May 19th I’ll let random.org pick two winners so World Book Media can send them the pattern of their choice. Make sure you enter your email address in case it’s you. 🙂

*** Update *** This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to our winners Dorian G. and Sandy F.!

Happy Sewing!