I don’t use many Japanese sewing books now, but they have always been special to me. Mainly because the first time I learned sewing was through Japanese sewing books and magazines.

The minimalist photos and layouts are one of the characteristics of these books. The model usually just stand or sit on a simple chair (or even the floor), doesn’t do much and not even smiling. The clothes are often loose and flowy with not much shaping, which makes them quite easy to make.

Japanese sewing books don’t use many words in their instructions, mainly relying on pictures and diagrams. These diagrams are usually pretty good, but people are often intimidated by the Japanese characters. This is where Tuttle Publishing comes in with English version of these books. I think it is a great idea!

Stylish Remakes was released this year, written by Violette Room. This is not a person’s name though, but a Japanese fashion company who is famous for its relaxed silhoutte and comfortable lines. As you can see in the cover, the book shows several ways to remake old clothes into trendy fashion pieces.

Personally this is not my style (anymore), but I think this is a perfect book for sewing newbie – especially the ones who are attracted to Japanese fashion style. The remakes are quite simple that you can have a new outfit in just a few hours.

My favorite from this book, a summer dress made from two men’s flannel shirts. The shirts have to be the same size because they will buttoned to each other. Part of the sleevs are turned into shoulder straps and the armholes are turned into pockets, very interesting!

More remakes from men’s shirts. Probably useful if you have a man in the house who is willing to separate from his many flannel shirts.

The book doesn’t come with full-size patterns, but the instructions will show you how to draft them – with both imperial and metric measurement systems. There is also templates for patchworks and embroideries, along with simple instructions on the hand stitches.

Although I’m not sure if I will use this particular book in the future, but I really like love idea of translating Japanese sewing books into English. It is an opportunity to see different ways to develop ideas. And of course, the pictures are an absolute eye candy!

Book review: Stylish Remakes published by Tuttle Publishing

Disclosure: this book was sent by Tuttle publishing for free to review. However, the views and opinions expressed are purely my own.