We are so excited to be distributing books produced by Stitch Publications—including books by famed Japanese quilt designer Yoko Saito! Over the next several weeks we’ll be sharing more details with you about these gorgeous books.
Today we’re sharing a peek into 138 Original Appliqué Designs by Yoko Saito. If you’re familiar with Ms. Saito’s work, you know she’s famous for her magnificent appliqué and her one-of-a-kind neutral color palettes. If you aren’t familiar with Yoko Saito, you are in for a treat today!
At a substantial 230 pages, this vast collection of Yoko Saito’s appliqué patterns ranges from whimsical and charming to simply breathtaking. The book also includes 20 projects that can showcase any appliqué motifs you choose. Lush, detailed photos of both blocks and projects reveal Ms. Saito’s flawless work and her meticulous attention to every detail.
Detail of the Mushroom Gathering appliqué motif, used on the Side Pocket Bag
Side Pocket Bag
The book looks, feels, and reads like an indulgent coffee-table book, drawing you in with each turn of the page as you anticipate what the next motif will be. Chapters are organized by type of motif and include Animals in the Zoo, Designs for Children, My Favorite Things, Botanical Motifs, The Alphabet, and Borders and Repeatable Patterns.
This Sewing Pouch features the Sewing Shears, Pincushion, and Rotary Cutter appliqué motifs
In the introduction to the 138 Original Appliqué Designs, Ms. Saito writes, “If you know my work, you know I love to appliqué. I find the process of cutting small pieces of fabric and precisely layering them into place while blind stitching them down to create pictures incredibly appealing . . . I hope you come to love the process of picking fabrics and the appliqué technique as much as I do and incorporate it into your work.”
For a rainy day: Umbrella Bag
For a hoppin’ day: Little Pouch
Find favorite childhood characters, robots, and friendly monsters; a primitive-style alphabet with motifs that correspond with each letter; glorious flowers and fronds; and appliquéd animals to charm and delight. 138 Original Appliqué Designs is a must-have book for appliqué enthusiasts, lovers of Japanese style, and of course, Yoko Saito fans!
Acorn Handbag
You can order your copy of Yoko Saito’s 138 Original Appliqué Designs at our website, ShopMartingale.com. See more books from Stitch Publications here. Which Stitch Publications book would you like to see featured next? Let us know in the comments!
We look forward to sharing more sneak peeks of Stitch Publications books with you in the coming weeks!
i can’t remember where but I saw her demonstrate how to do the tiniest circle and she made it look so easy, I adore her work.
—Diane S on October 16, 2017I first saw a Yoko Saito quilt of houses in 2007. Since then I’ve followed her creations faithfully. I bought her Japanese Color Theory book and absolutely love it. I am thrilled that you are going to be carrying her books.
We are just as thrilled as you are, Sherry – thank you for your comment! –Jenny
—Sherry Jurykovsky on October 17, 2017No matter which book you choose to feature next, it will be equally awe inspiring. Applique is not one of my favorite things to do, but I love what it adds to projects.
—Paula Hedges on October 17, 2017I love Yoko’s fabrics, colors and all of her work. However, I wish the books had more quilts than purses, but I do enjoy looking at everything she does – gorgeous work.
—Paula on October 20, 2017Absolutely stunning workmanship!
—Karen on October 20, 2017Can’t wait to get the book.
All of her work is stunning. So perfect. Would love the book.
—Martha Followill on October 20, 2017Sweet and simple shapes to adorn so many different pieces. Love that they can be quick, take-along projects to work on while traveling.
—Mary Smith on October 20, 2017I recently discovered Yoko Saito’s books. Her work is impeccable! Stunning!! Her Traditional Block Patterns book is amazing. The Japanese Color Theory book sounds like a great book to feature. It has been fun searching for suitable, neutral fabrics while Shop Hopping locally.
—Debbie on October 20, 2017What dainty, complex, and wonderful work! If this doesn’t get everyone inspired, something wrong? When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
—Robbie on October 20, 2017I sawI her at a quilt show years ago her booth drew me in. Have been a follower since.
—Marge on October 21, 2017Love her designs, color choices and her perfect workmanship!
—Welton Renee on October 28, 2017