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The Nani Iro Sewing Studio: 18 Timeless Patterns to Sew, Wear & Love
Fresh from Japan, the much-anticipated collection of Nani Iro sewing patterns is finally available in English! Beloved by art fans and textile enthusiasts around the world, Nani Iro fabric has developed a cult following since the brand’s inception by artist Naomi Ito in 2002. With their simple, yet artful design, the 18 garment patterns in this book showcase fluid movement and beautiful drape for signature Nani Iro style. You’ll find instructions for stitching up a wardrobe of comfortable, flowy pieces that you’ll look forward to wearing again and again, including The Basic Blouse, The Cocoon Dress, and The Everyday Jumpsuit. Inside, you’ll find outfit inspiration for mixing and matching me-made pieces to create artistically layered outfits. Plus, take a behind-the-scenes look at the brand’s studio in Osaka for glimpse at the studio team’s favorite ways to style their Nani Iro pieces.
- GenresSewingNonfiction
128 pages, Paperback
Published June 15, 2019
3 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 3, 2019
Loved all the beautiful projects this book offers! The stunning photography and easy to use instructions has guaranteed that I will be trying out all of these myself. Hip, vibrant, satisfying designs makes this a must read for any sewing fashionista whether your a beginner or already a master craftsman. 5/5 stars for a new creative masterpiece.
June 11, 2019
Interesting patterns, and easy to follow, step-by-step sewing instructions. The pictures of the finished models in different fabrics and colors makes it easier to select one that suits ones own style.
April 1, 2019
I am a keen crafter, maker and sewist so I was very excited to see a new sewing book on the market. I won't, however, be buying this book nor can I recommend it. The patterns are incredibly dated and incredibly shapeless. Whilst the instructions have diagrams they are not accessible or easy to follow. Unfortunately, I was left uninspired and underwhelmed.
April 11, 2019
As with any collection of garment patterns, these all have a similar aesthetic which may not suit all sewists. Available sizing may be a problem. The included patterns are sized S/M/L/XL, the largest maxing out at bust 39.5"/waist 33.5"/hips 41.25". An experienced sewist may be able to alter the patterns if needed, but a beginner would likely not want to attempt this. The sun hat pattern comes in only one size, 22", so this also might cause problems if the maker's head is of a larger circumference. I like that the table of contents has thumbnail photos of the included garments for easy reference - always a nice touch! While many of the garments utilize fairly simple shaping, the instructions do not seem quite detailed enough for a beginner to follow without becoming frustrated. I've noticed countries other than the US tend to give less detail in instructions so this isn't surprising in a book of Japanese patterns, however it's a good thing to know before buying. If you're okay with less hand-holding and fall somewhere within the available sizing, then this collection just might work for you.
Thank you to Zakka Workshop and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Zakka Workshop and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 2, 2019
*** I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. ***
As someone getting into sewing, I've seen Nani Iro pop up quite a bit. There are some basic clothes to make, but a lot of the clothes are of what's popular in Japan right now: big and baggy shirts, dresses and pants. There's nothing wrong with that trend (esp as someone who does follow some parts of that fashion), but not everyone may be interested in these styles.
Thankfully, I was happy to see that they had smaller sizes, which has been a struggle when looking for patterns for some reason.
Each project is laid out in detail. You get finished sizes, the materials needed, and how to lay the patterns on the fabric to cut the pieces. The construction steps are very detailed but easy to understand for even a newer sewer, especially given that they include illustrations on what needs to be done. There's not a lot of guesswork that needs to happen when putting the clothing together.
As someone getting into sewing, I've seen Nani Iro pop up quite a bit. There are some basic clothes to make, but a lot of the clothes are of what's popular in Japan right now: big and baggy shirts, dresses and pants. There's nothing wrong with that trend (esp as someone who does follow some parts of that fashion), but not everyone may be interested in these styles.
Thankfully, I was happy to see that they had smaller sizes, which has been a struggle when looking for patterns for some reason.
Each project is laid out in detail. You get finished sizes, the materials needed, and how to lay the patterns on the fabric to cut the pieces. The construction steps are very detailed but easy to understand for even a newer sewer, especially given that they include illustrations on what needs to be done. There's not a lot of guesswork that needs to happen when putting the clothing together.
December 5, 2019
I love the idea of these looks, but I don't know how much potato sack I can actually pull off. Mostly drawn towards the long sleeved work dress and the work shirt.
July 27, 2019
I loved the minimalist designs in this Japanese pattern book. The patterns are designed to highlight exceptional fabrics. Being a petite person myself, it didn’t bother me that they run to the small side. I reviewed a digital review copy of the book, which made using the patterns harder than I was willing to venture. I would definitely buy a copy of the hardcover or paperback version to try out the T-shirt dress and the pants.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 1, 2020
The simple and comfy-looking patterns from the cover of the book is what got my attention. Nani Iro is the name of Naomi Ito’s very well-known fabric brand. As a watercolor artist and textile designer, she creates beautiful fabric designs in a painterly style.
This book contains 18 patterns that can create a basic wardrobe: blouse, skirt, pants, jumpsuit, shirt, hat, two coats and several types of dresses. There’s advice and examples for mix and matching them as well as fabric specifications and suggestions for each pattern. There’s also a sneak peak into Nani Iro’s studio, showing fabric types, colors, and even the team of women working there, showcasing their favorite outfits using patterns from the book.
Really loved these minimalist and clean designs. These patterns look natural, romantic and breezy. Perfect for indoor use and, while I wouldn’t probably venture outside wearing the cocoon dress, most patterns would look lovely for informal occasions and weekend getaways. With the right fabric choice, their elegance can make them perfect for an evening out.
If it wasn’t clear by now, these patterns are not tight-fitted garments, they are very loose fit. Consider if this is a style you would like to wear. Another thing to keep in mind is that their biggest size (XL) is for someone up to 67 in. tall, 29.5 in. bust, 33.5 in. waist and about 41 in. hips. Their over-sized nature can help to stretch that limit but if not, you’ll need to make adaptations. Other than that, I think this book is wonderful. I specially enjoyed that it is more than a pattern book, it gives you tips on how to combine them, what fabrics suit them and for what occasions and weather. Really lovely pictures and enough inspiration to get you sewing.
This book contains 18 patterns that can create a basic wardrobe: blouse, skirt, pants, jumpsuit, shirt, hat, two coats and several types of dresses. There’s advice and examples for mix and matching them as well as fabric specifications and suggestions for each pattern. There’s also a sneak peak into Nani Iro’s studio, showing fabric types, colors, and even the team of women working there, showcasing their favorite outfits using patterns from the book.
Really loved these minimalist and clean designs. These patterns look natural, romantic and breezy. Perfect for indoor use and, while I wouldn’t probably venture outside wearing the cocoon dress, most patterns would look lovely for informal occasions and weekend getaways. With the right fabric choice, their elegance can make them perfect for an evening out.
If it wasn’t clear by now, these patterns are not tight-fitted garments, they are very loose fit. Consider if this is a style you would like to wear. Another thing to keep in mind is that their biggest size (XL) is for someone up to 67 in. tall, 29.5 in. bust, 33.5 in. waist and about 41 in. hips. Their over-sized nature can help to stretch that limit but if not, you’ll need to make adaptations. Other than that, I think this book is wonderful. I specially enjoyed that it is more than a pattern book, it gives you tips on how to combine them, what fabrics suit them and for what occasions and weather. Really lovely pictures and enough inspiration to get you sewing.
June 30, 2019
Less is more:
I love the simple style of the patterns in this book. The finished garments are beautiful and ideal for showcasing the Nani Iro fabric prints. The models look very airy, ideal for summer and lot of them can be combined with each other. The sewing instructions are easy to follow. The easiest models can be sewn in two to three hours. The more complicated models take about a day from start to finish. I personally like the oversized look of the garments which I am planning to counterbalance with simple, but more tailored accessories, for example the J pants with a tailored shirt or the G dress with slim leggings. My favorites are the B,D, and G dresses, the J pants, the L skirt, and the M overall. I do not believe I can go wrong with them, especially when I use the Nano Iro fabrics.
I love the simple style of the patterns in this book. The finished garments are beautiful and ideal for showcasing the Nani Iro fabric prints. The models look very airy, ideal for summer and lot of them can be combined with each other. The sewing instructions are easy to follow. The easiest models can be sewn in two to three hours. The more complicated models take about a day from start to finish. I personally like the oversized look of the garments which I am planning to counterbalance with simple, but more tailored accessories, for example the J pants with a tailored shirt or the G dress with slim leggings. My favorites are the B,D, and G dresses, the J pants, the L skirt, and the M overall. I do not believe I can go wrong with them, especially when I use the Nano Iro fabrics.
February 9, 2020
This book is clearly written with wonderful full-size pictures. A lot of thought and work went into producing this fabulously looking book.
The designs are not my style, too boxy, shapeless and over sized. The Tank Dress looks super easy and the look of the Winter Coat is appealing. It's possible, but unlikely that I could give one or two of the designs a try,
I can appreciate the full pattern layouts in the book and the sewing instructions which are well-written and expertly laid out. I looked thru the patterns sheets only to realize they continued on the other side of the sheet. I would have liked to have the patterns on a one sided sheet. This would prove to be too difficult and confusing tracing onto a separate piece of paper for me.
If the designs work for you, then this is the book for you. This is a library book and I have no plans to purchase this book.
The designs are not my style, too boxy, shapeless and over sized. The Tank Dress looks super easy and the look of the Winter Coat is appealing. It's possible, but unlikely that I could give one or two of the designs a try,
I can appreciate the full pattern layouts in the book and the sewing instructions which are well-written and expertly laid out. I looked thru the patterns sheets only to realize they continued on the other side of the sheet. I would have liked to have the patterns on a one sided sheet. This would prove to be too difficult and confusing tracing onto a separate piece of paper for me.
If the designs work for you, then this is the book for you. This is a library book and I have no plans to purchase this book.
June 11, 2019
I was expecting something better than a series of clothes that look all the same and only a very very thin woman can wear without risking to look like a potato sack, but the textiles are nice.
Mi aspettavo qualcosa di meglio che una serie di vestiti piú o meno molto simili che possono essere indossati solo da una silfide per non sembrare un informe sacco di patate, ma i tessuti sono carini.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
Mi aspettavo qualcosa di meglio che una serie di vestiti piú o meno molto simili che possono essere indossati solo da una silfide per non sembrare un informe sacco di patate, ma i tessuti sono carini.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
August 19, 2019
I have been an admirer of Nani Iro fabrics for years, so I was delighted to have a chance to look into this book. It includes style ideas, explanations of how to cut the fabric and sew the garments, and the pattern pieces themselves. You would have to trace these out of a physical book, so if you prefer not to trace patterns, the book might not be for you. But the designs are simple, comfortable, and easy to sew, and would show off pretty fabric designs very well.
June 2, 2019
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
The Nani Iro Sewing Studio is a tutorial sewing guide with 18 included patterns with variations included. Due out 15th June 2019 from World Book Media, it's 128 pages and will be available in paperback format.
Japanese clothing design has a different aesthetic when compared to most western clothing design. It's minimalist, with strong emphasis on clean lines, natural fibres, classic (not trendy) style and pieces which work together and usually have multiple uses. It's diametrically opposed to fast/disposable fashion. These pieces fit the Japanese ethos.
The included pieces are simple and minimalist (see cover). There are 18 mix and match pieces. Western sewists will want to be aware that the size ranges are much smaller than those we're used to and the max size is roughly equivalent to a US medium. For the sizes, for example, the max waist (XL) is 33.5". Many of the shirts and dresses have a -very- loose silhouette and could work without scaling up, but the fitted pieces will likely need adjustment for most users. Also worth noting, the patterns are provided -without- included seam allowances which need to be added.
The fabrics pictured are gorgeous. Pure cotton, linen, and blends, most of them proprietary to the designer. There is a pictorial swatch gallery that is drool worthy and had my fingers itching to touch. There's also a picture gallery with heights and sizes of the design team showing them wearing some of the models in the book which helps to visualize the drape and silhouette of the finished garments.
I did not finish any of the garments, but a close read-through of the construction notes didn't turn up any glaring mistakes in translation. The included tutorial diagrams are good, and on a par with those included with commercial western patterns. The pattern sheets for the included pieces are similar to the ones included with Burda or Ottobre magazine or other multi-style sewing magazines.
I really liked a lot of the designs here and there are numerous subtle details which are not immediately apparent. The style is absolutely not fussy or fitted (some will say 'shapeless'). For me it's four stars. I can understand others being unhappy with the minimalist aesthetic (hence the 1 star reviews).
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Nani Iro Sewing Studio is a tutorial sewing guide with 18 included patterns with variations included. Due out 15th June 2019 from World Book Media, it's 128 pages and will be available in paperback format.
Japanese clothing design has a different aesthetic when compared to most western clothing design. It's minimalist, with strong emphasis on clean lines, natural fibres, classic (not trendy) style and pieces which work together and usually have multiple uses. It's diametrically opposed to fast/disposable fashion. These pieces fit the Japanese ethos.
The included pieces are simple and minimalist (see cover). There are 18 mix and match pieces. Western sewists will want to be aware that the size ranges are much smaller than those we're used to and the max size is roughly equivalent to a US medium. For the sizes, for example, the max waist (XL) is 33.5". Many of the shirts and dresses have a -very- loose silhouette and could work without scaling up, but the fitted pieces will likely need adjustment for most users. Also worth noting, the patterns are provided -without- included seam allowances which need to be added.
The fabrics pictured are gorgeous. Pure cotton, linen, and blends, most of them proprietary to the designer. There is a pictorial swatch gallery that is drool worthy and had my fingers itching to touch. There's also a picture gallery with heights and sizes of the design team showing them wearing some of the models in the book which helps to visualize the drape and silhouette of the finished garments.
I did not finish any of the garments, but a close read-through of the construction notes didn't turn up any glaring mistakes in translation. The included tutorial diagrams are good, and on a par with those included with commercial western patterns. The pattern sheets for the included pieces are similar to the ones included with Burda or Ottobre magazine or other multi-style sewing magazines.
I really liked a lot of the designs here and there are numerous subtle details which are not immediately apparent. The style is absolutely not fussy or fitted (some will say 'shapeless'). For me it's four stars. I can understand others being unhappy with the minimalist aesthetic (hence the 1 star reviews).
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
June 25, 2019
I received a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher, which makes it a bit difficult to review, since I didn't actually have the patterns to work from to try making anything. First, the negatives. The patterns are all crammed onto just a few pages, which would make them very difficult to work with in terms of tracing the correct lines to create your own pattern pieces. Also, the size range here is not very inclusive -- everything is quite small. The positives - the book is simple and there are some very interesting patterns here. They have a modern, oversize aesthetic, which you will either love or hate. The pleated tunic dress is stunning, and I would consider buying the book to get the patterns just to make that dress.
July 31, 2019
Translated in 2019 with easy to read step by step instructions this book will suit sewers who like Japanese sewing but find it time consuming/complicated to work out the measurements and sizing. A full set of patterns is included although I wasn’t able to access them from my device.
The relatively simple styles look comfortable to wear and in the right fabric would become suitable for almost any occasion. Although the styles aren’t to my taste I am sure they will appeal to plenty of other sewers. Perhaps best suited to the adventurous beginner or more advanced.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free digital copy of the book in return for an honest review.
The relatively simple styles look comfortable to wear and in the right fabric would become suitable for almost any occasion. Although the styles aren’t to my taste I am sure they will appeal to plenty of other sewers. Perhaps best suited to the adventurous beginner or more advanced.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free digital copy of the book in return for an honest review.
August 22, 2020
The Nani Iro studio produces lovely fabric which is why I was attracted to this book. And the fabrics used are indeed lovely.
And there is a wardrobe of sewing patterns here (included-ish at the back of the book) so you can make them up yourself. But they tend to be on the loose and shapeless side, which is the aesthetic they are clearly going for, but it's not for everyone. I loved flicking through the pictures but I'm not that tempted to make any of the garments.
The size range varies by 20cm or less, and while the patterns are loose enough to fit a little further than the specified range, it's not going to extend too far.
And there is a wardrobe of sewing patterns here (included-ish at the back of the book) so you can make them up yourself. But they tend to be on the loose and shapeless side, which is the aesthetic they are clearly going for, but it's not for everyone. I loved flicking through the pictures but I'm not that tempted to make any of the garments.
The size range varies by 20cm or less, and while the patterns are loose enough to fit a little further than the specified range, it's not going to extend too far.
March 1, 2022
I wanted to like this book. I love the fabrics, and the construction of some of the dresses is really interesting. The styles are not my usual style, and I didn't want to invest the time and fabric into making clothing that I might not end up not wearing. I wish I could try some of the dresses on, just to see if I could make it work.
June 1, 2019
This book was very informative, very useful.
I'm a beginner at sewing, however I love doing projects with my machine!
This one for sure will be become more projects since I'll be trying some of the patterns.
Also loved the fabric explanation and tips!
I'm a beginner at sewing, however I love doing projects with my machine!
This one for sure will be become more projects since I'll be trying some of the patterns.
Also loved the fabric explanation and tips!
September 25, 2019
This book is so timely! With simple instructions you can make your own inspired wardrobe. The photos are simple and showcase the pieces nicely, while the instructions assist the reader in techniques needed to create Japanese inspired clothing.
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September 23, 2023I am so (sew) glad I ordered this book. The designs are delightful & the instructions are detailed. I like the loose shapes; some are unusual and will pose new challenges for me, even though I am advanced sewer. Eighteen patterns are included & I am about to begin a sewing frenzy.
May 11, 2024
I haven't made any of these garments yet, but I am inspired to. I've been away from sewing and I'm wanting to get back to it, so I'm just gathering some momentum in looking at different patterns. I hope to come back and make some of these.
June 6, 2019
I loved the capsule closet and the range of clothes, but I wished there was more instructions for begginers.
As a digital book, it doesn´t work since there is no acess to the patterns.
As a digital book, it doesn´t work since there is no acess to the patterns.
August 7, 2019
The Nani Iro Sewing Studio is a great book to get new project ideas. There is something for all skill levels. The instructions are easy to follow.
December 1, 2019
the patterns looked like feed sacks
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May 22, 2022One v neck possibility as well as a couple of skirt/dress choices.
August 6, 2023
The minimalist design of these patterns is attractive to me. The layout and step-by-step instructions will make it easy to try one of the projects.
April 21, 2024
For small petites (me)
Directions easy to follow. Like a few patterns for the future.
Directions easy to follow. Like a few patterns for the future.
March 12, 2025
The styles are unflattering and boxy. The fabric prints are great though!
January 20, 2020
I love these designs, they are typical of the Japanese patterns I have used before, timeless, easily co-ordinated with each other and very simple to sew. These outfits can be worn by all age groups, shapes and sizes, and by a simple addition or subtraction of clothing, the outfit becomes something new and different.
There are full sized patterns at the end of the book and a good explanation of the patterns pieces and construction. There are photo examples of clothing and fabric combinations for a different look included.
Really great look and designs.
There are full sized patterns at the end of the book and a good explanation of the patterns pieces and construction. There are photo examples of clothing and fabric combinations for a different look included.
Really great look and designs.
April 13, 2019
Beautiful and inspiring, it's a great book for sewers who want to experiment with Japanese sewing. The only "bad" comment is that the sizes are smaller than most Western women wear. If it would be more inclusive it would probably sell even more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews