A Quilter’s Art: 16 Enchanting Pieces of Japanese Bags and Pouches
In the late 19th century, Western-style quilting was introduced to Japan by American and European missionaries and teachers. Japanese fiber artists were interested in the patchwork and applique quilting styles created by the female missionaries and wives of American and European men in Japan.
They combined the craft with their own traditions and styles to make a look that is uniquely theirs. I admire and respect the precision and use of color. The surprising details make me smile, and the craftsmanship on each piece is breathtaking. There’s a free sewing pattern at the end so you can try your hand at this art. Enjoy!
Darling Purse
The Japanese used traditional stitching patterns and fabrics to create quilts and useful items that had a distinctly Japanese feel.
Sunbonnet Sue Wallet
This little wallet with sunbonnet sue hand appliqued on the front is a beautiful example of American influence on Japanese handcraft. Sunbonnet Sue is a classic design in old Western quilts, featuring a young girl in a bonnet that obscures her face, often depicted in profile and engaged in domestic activities.
The intricate hand-turned applique pieces, bits of lace, texture variation, and perfectly even hand-quilting stitches on the background all make this piece distinctly Japanese.
Hand-Pieced and Quilted Notebook Cover
The only way to achieve such intricate piecing and quilting is by hand. It’s the small details executed perfectly that truly sets Japanese handcraft apart. I always make sure to look closely so I don’t miss any of the meticulous details.
A Sweet Scene
The calming earth tones on this little purse are offset by the bright, textured scarf and three dimensional-looking elements.
Handmade Knapsack with a Japanese Schoolgirl
This schoolgirl is so cute (kawaii) which is also distinctly Japanese. The details on this bag are stunning. The edges around each piece of fabric have been turned under with a needle and invisibly sewn to the fabric behind it. The quilter also hand-quilted around each separate fabric and on the background.
Small Rounded Purse
Here’s a charming little wallet pouch that features a bonnet. Don’t miss the tiny decorative stitches. You’ll notice that plaid fabrics are a favorite among Japanese quilters who use them in quilts and handcrafts of all kinds.
Hand Quilted Key Ring Cover
A key is a symbol of trust and respect. You wouldn’t give your key to just anyone, would you? Maybe that’s why an artist put such care into this lovely key ring cover.
This is such a heartfelt theme. I found more key themed pieces too.
Key Ring Cover and Wallet
Here’s a key ring cover and wallet in one. It’s very functional on the inside, but wait until you see how much effort and care went into the beautiful details on the outside of the case.
Outside of the Key Ring Cover and Wallet
My favorite part of this tender hand-turned applique design is the bright tiny floral fabric that breaks up the traditional plaids. The girl’s dress shines like a precious light! Did you notice the hand-sewn beads for her eyes?
Small Key Ring Purses
Just one more key-themed project! These key rings are just big enough to hold a hand-appliqued fob that is also a small purse. The tiny workings of the tiny landscape are impeccable!
House Tissue Box Cover
Another common theme in Japanese handicrafts is landscape scenes with trees and houses like this one. Again, the applique are shaped beautifully by hand, and the different plaid prints add texture.
Melodion Cover
Here’s a sweet carrying case for a child’s Melodion instrument. This is the perfect time of year to appreciate a young girl dancing with bunnies!
I had a melodion as a child, but it didn’t have a case like this! The melodion is a musical instrument that can be described as a harmonica (but you blow into a hose) with piano keys. Suzuki makes them, and they are often intended for children to play.
Zipper Wallet with Fabulous Applique
What stands out to you on this beautiful wallet? I love the yellow cat! She shines down on the precious girl like the sun. I can’t help but notice how the quilter sewed small lines of stitching to echo the plaid on the tiny girl’s dress. Each piece of fabric is carefully placed so that each one makes the scene more interesting.
Tender Laptop Case
Carrying your laptop in a beautifully handmade case like this must feel like you are channeling old and new traditions at the same time! And what a sweet depiction of a girl getting ready to cook.
Endearing Quilted Dolls
Lastly, I had to show you these quilted dolls with lovingly sewn clothing. Perhaps they could also be used as key rings. What do you think of this collection of Japanese handcrafts?
Try Your Hand!
Would you like to make your own version of gorgeous Japanese handcraft? Here is a free sewing pattern to make a sweet coin purse with instructions for hand-turned applique.
More from SewCanShe:
32 New and Favorite Quilt Patterns From Tilda: All Free
20 Gorgeous Spring Quilt Patterns: All Free!
20 Easy Easter Sewing Projects – Hop To It!
Disclosure: some of my posts contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of those links I may receive a small commission, so thank you for supporting SewCanShe when you shop! All of the opinions are my own and I only suggest products that I actually use. 🙂