What books can help you dive into the world of slow and sustainable fashion Part I?

1. "Joyful Mending" by Noriko Misumi is a captivating guide that invites readers to explore the world of sashiko, a traditional Japanese stitchwork technique that combines functionality and aesthetics in a harmonious way. Misumi's book is a delightful and educational read for those interested in taking their mending skills to the next level by incorporating additional sewing, darning, felting, and crocheting techniques into their repertoire.

Misumi begins by introducing readers to the art of sashiko, a form of needlework that originated in Japan and has been used for centuries to reinforce and embellish textiles. Sashiko stitches create intricate patterns that add strength and beauty to garments, transforming the process of mending into a form of artistic expression. Misumi provides readers with step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations to guide them through various sashiko stitches, making it easy for beginners to grasp the basics and start incorporating this technique into their mending projects.

One of the book's highlights is its emphasis on the philosophy of Wabi Sabi, which encourages an appreciation of old and imperfect things. This perspective aligns perfectly with the ethos of mending and sustainable fashion, as it fosters a deeper connection to the clothes we own and encourages us to find beauty in their imperfections. Misumi's focus on Wabi Sabi helps readers embrace their existing wardrobe and see the potential for transformation in garments that may have been overlooked or deemed unusable.

In addition to sashiko, "Joyful Mending" explores a variety of other mending techniques, including sewing, darning, felting, and crocheting. Misumi's comprehensive approach provides readers with a diverse set of tools and methods to breathe new life into their clothes. Her instructions are detailed and accessible, ensuring that readers of all skill levels can follow along and experiment with different techniques.

Misumi's passion for her craft is evident throughout the book, as she shares personal anecdotes and experiences that highlight the joy and satisfaction that come from mending. Her enthusiasm is contagious, inspiring readers to embark on their own mending journey and discover the fulfillment that comes from reviving and personalizing their wardrobe.

"Joyful Mending" is not only a guide to mending techniques but also a celebration of the cultural heritage and traditions associated with needlework. Misumi's deep respect for the history and artistry of sashiko and other forms of mending is woven throughout the book, providing readers with a greater understanding of the significance of these practices.

The book's visual appeal is another strong point, with beautiful photographs and illustrations that showcase the various mending techniques and their applications. These visuals offer readers a clear reference for each method and provide inspiration for incorporating mending into their own style.

In summary, "Joyful Mending" by Noriko Misumi is a beautifully crafted guide that invites readers to explore the world of traditional Japanese stitchwork and other mending techniques. Through her accessible instructions, thoughtful insights, and celebration of Wabi Sabi, Misumi encourages readers to embrace the imperfections in their wardrobe and discover the joy of mending. Her book provides readers with the tools and inspiration needed to transform their relationship with clothing and contribute to a more sustainable and mindful fashion future.

2. "Mending with Boro" by Harumi Horiuchi is a forthcoming guide that introduces readers to the ancient Japanese technique of boro, which perfectly complements the art of sashiko and offers a holistic approach to mending. Boro, which translates to "rags" or "tattered cloth," involves layering and patching fabrics together using visible stitches, creating a patchwork effect that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This technique has a long history in Japan, where it was traditionally used to extend the life of textiles and conserve valuable resources.

In this book, Horiuchi guides readers through the process of incorporating boro into their mending practices, showing them how to use this straight stitch technique to mend a variety of items, from old clothing to cloth bags and even woolen socks. Her comprehensive approach provides readers with the knowledge and skills needed to transform worn or damaged textiles into beautiful and durable pieces.

One of the key strengths of "Mending with Boro" is its focus on the practical application of boro in everyday mending projects. Horiuchi offers clear, step-by-step instructions for executing various boro stitches, making the technique accessible to beginners and experienced menders alike. Her guidance is accompanied by detailed illustrations and photographs, providing readers with visual references to aid in their learning.

Horiuchi's book emphasizes the versatility of boro, encouraging readers to experiment with different fabrics, colors, and patterns to create unique and personalized mending projects. The layering and patching involved in boro allow for creative expression and the opportunity to transform old or worn items into one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the mender's style and aesthetic.

In addition to teaching the technique, Horiuchi delves into the cultural and historical significance of boro, providing readers with a deeper understanding of its origins and traditional uses. This context adds a layer of richness to the practice of boro, allowing readers to appreciate its role in Japanese heritage and its relevance to contemporary sustainable fashion.

"Mending with Boro" also aligns with the broader movement toward slow and sustainable fashion. By extending the life of textiles through boro, readers can reduce waste and contribute to a more circular economy. Horiuchi's approach to mending emphasizes the value of taking the time to repair and revive textiles, fostering a deeper connection to the items we own and encouraging a more mindful approach to consumption.

The book's forthcoming release in March is highly anticipated, as it offers readers a fresh perspective on mending that goes beyond traditional techniques. Horiuchi's expertise and passion for boro shine through in her writing, inspiring readers to embrace this ancient practice and discover the joy and satisfaction that come from revitalizing textiles.

In summary, "Mending with Boro" by Harumi Horiuchi is an enriching guide that introduces readers to the art of boro, a traditional Japanese mending technique that complements sashiko and enhances the practice of sustainable fashion. Through accessible instructions, visual references, and cultural insights, Horiuchi empowers readers to incorporate boro into their mending projects, transforming old or damaged textiles into beautiful and lasting pieces. Her book offers readers the tools and inspiration needed to embrace a more mindful and creative approach to mending, contributing to a more sustainable and aesthetically rewarding future.