this book uses the traditional japanese embroidery technique of sashiko to embellish a variety of sewing projects. traditional sashiko uses the repition of many tiny stiches to create an overall pattern. the projects in this book use the same embroidery process to create large and small images, repeating patterns, geometric shapes, and other cute designs. projects include: bags, furoshiki (wrapping cloth), pouches, book covers, pot holders, tea cozies and coasters, placemats and aprons, napkins, cushion covers, curtains and tablecloths, hanging decorations/ornaments, vase covers, and ideas for embroidery on clothes. all the written directions are in japanese, but there are clear photos of basic stitches, and patterns and diagrams for all the projects. the projects have a bit of a range from simple to intermediate difficulty, although with some sewing experience, you should be able to recreate all the projects in this book. for even a complete beginner, you can use all the embroidery ideas and make the simpler projects. the patterns for the sewing projects are included (they overlap, so you need to photocopy them and then cut out the ones you are using), as are the embroidery patterns. 71 pages.

Only got one made today. Funky fun placemats for my bachelor brother in law for Christmas. He is into old cars and Rock-a-billy. I am loving this placemat pattern!!! 3 more to go.