I moved to Japan to teach English after graduating college and discovered Kimekomi (cut and tuck technique). It has become my preferred method of ornament making.
Kimekomi is a technique where a pattern is drawn and then cut onto a surface, such as a softwood or smooth foam. Fabric is then placed over the pattern and tucked into the cuts.
Kimekomi was developed in the 18th century in Japan as a doll making technique. Kimekomi literally means “to tuck into a groove”. The technique has been passed down through the generations and somewhere along the way someone started making kimekomi balls. With the modern invention of polystyrene foam and the easy access to materials, kimekomi is no longer limited to Japanese artisans.
Shown here are several of her beautiful Christmas ornament tutorials. There are plenty of ways to make these balls your own with different fabric and color choices!
Alyx also has a wonderful Youtube channel all about the technique.
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those are so pretty, and what a great way to use fabric bits and pieces.
ReplyDeleteI had a number of styrofoam balls hanging around and I couldn't think of anything to do with them. I'm pretty sure I don't have them anymore which is a shame as I'm suddenly filled with inspiration after looking at these gorgeous designs!
ReplyDeleteEverywhere I look lately it's all about Christmas decorations and how well they are selling.
Sigh...I'm late to the making!