Japanese obi clutch bag

 The obi is the 'belt' that goes around the kimono and they often come in brightly woven fabrics with bold design motifs. Their sturdy fabric and stunning designs mean they are perfect for making into clutch bags.

This clutch bag is made from a beautiful woven red and pink obi fabric with a stork motif.

It's perfect for using as a clutch bag or evening purse.

Look up close and you will see the detail included and the combination of stork motif with traditional Japanese geometric designs.

The bag is fully lined with a red cotton lining and has a matching pink tassel on the zipper pull.

 

Fabric Friday

Today's fabric choice is a little offering from my rather extensive collection of kimono fabrics. I have several boxes full of small cuttings that I collected over my four years of living in Tokyo. Many stall holders at the antique markets I frequented, sell small pieces of kimono fabrics, and these are often the perfect size for a Cheeky Leopard coin purse or clutch bag.

I rediscovered this kimono piece recently as I am planning a new design group for Makower, inspired by Japanese fabrics. I often draw inspiration from some of the elements in the kimono fabrics for my designs. I chose this one for the flower shapes, but I also love the mix of vibrant pink and red with a touch of orange. I'm always intrigued by the layouts of kimono designs, the layering of the pattern is often very intricate and I love the inclusion of geometric motifs in some areas - see bottom right of the image. I also love the fact that this fabric piece looks so modern, even though it is vintage.

You can see more kimono-inspired designs on my portfolio website.

Blog mention

My pink and red vintage obi handbag was recently featured in Cornflake Purl's blog. Cornflake Purl is run by Bronnie who is located in New Zealand and creates cosy hand knit scarves, cowls, beanies, fingerless mittens etc. to keep you warm through to spring. She has paired my handbag with a beautiful selection of items including this stunning emerald green dress by Deja Vintage Boutique.

You can find the handbag on my Etsy store here.

Pink and red

'Pink and Red ' by malibloom

My blossom purse was recently featured in this gorgeously bright Etsy treasury. This will blow away the post holiday blues! 

Click on any image to find out more.

PINKCHAMPAGNEF... $34.99	ChronologieVin... $68.00	wonderdoodle $13.00	JessicaIllustr... $22.00
lizbags $6.00	silverridgestu... $75.00	cheekyleopard $52.00	Sweetbeefinds $88.00
brandMOJOimage... $25.00	storyofthings $39.00	NanaJoy $19.00	estatechicago $12.00
cottonlicious $5.50	WisteriaDesign... $5.00	ugm2000 $90.00	Molipop $20.00

Treasury tool supported by the dog house