Silky Soft Kimono

Just before Christmas a parcel of vintage Kimono pieces arrived and it didn't take me long to start creating.  I love receiving packages in the mail, it takes me about an hour to go through each piece and admire the beauty of the design.  Here's a lovely silky soft Kimono piece....

And here's the finished flower.  This one was made to order for a wonderful friend in Brisbane who said it was gorgeous and she'd wear it on Christmas Day.  

Today I'm home alone and guess what I'm doing?  Making cherry blossom flowers - so exciting!!  I hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas and all the best for 2012.  If it's anything like 2011 I'm in for a fun and busy year....bring it on.

Vintage Kimono #2

Here's the second vintage Kimono that I purchased a little while ago - it's just so stunning!  The red and green are so vibrant with a beautiful, traditional design.  This one was a child's Kimono and I can just imagine a little boy or girl running around playing with it on.

But, as with all my vintage Kimono's it was time for it to be upcycled.  Last weekend while camping I took it along and carefully unpicked it.  I love this part of the process.  It looks a little sad when unpicked doesn't it.  See the two pieces of thin card I found in the lapel?  (sorry for the poor photo but it's bucketing down here and is very dark inside my studio).

The front part of the Kimono was quite stained (no doubt from the child running around while wearing it!) so I carefully washed it but the stains didn't come out.  Not to worry, still plenty left to play with.  Here's some creations...amazing how different each one is.  I like to think they each have their own personality.

I wore one of these in my hair last night at a Christmas function - they colours are perfect to celebrate the festive season.  If you're interested in purchasing one of these just let me know.

I have another upcycled vintage Kimono to show you soon.....