Cloth Paper Scissors Magazine
A few months ago, I worked on a fun project for Cloth Paper Scissors Magazine (Issue #75, November/December 2017), a Sewn Boro Cloth Brush Roll.
Years ago, I made a similar version of this roll up piece, in leather, for my Father-in law. He is an artist and I thought he could use it to carry or store his favorite paintbrushes. (I’m very happy to see that he still uses it, and the leather now has a wonderful patina too!) I was inspired to try a new version of this brush/crochet hook/knitting needle/favorite markers roll using the hand stitched, boro cloth techniques I explored in my my newest book. The Boro Quilt was super fun to make and I’m happy to say that it will be exhibited at Quiltcon next month!
“Boro”, is a Japanese term that means tattered cloth or rags. The Japanese would often hand stitch layers of patches and stronger fabrics onto these tattered cloths to reinforce them. The stitches added strength and often a decorative element to the cloth, making the clothing or piece useable by several generations. Using this idea for my project, I thought that by adding in some decorative hand stitching and incorporating some meaningful fabrics, this roll could be catered to the recipient or user’s personal history and taste. With the brush roll, I started with a thrifted chambray shirt as the base cloth, I dipped into my collection of vintage fabrics to pull out just the right ones to add to this piece. I found ways to add really any sort of special piece, like a bit of needlepoint canvas, to the piece. The magazine’s instructions will show you how.
I’m so happy with how it turned out!
P.S.- If you are interested in learning the Japanese style of decorating hand stitching called “Sashiko”, I have a very popular playlist to teach you the basics over on my YouTube channel. Seriously, it is so fun and relaxing, its just the kind of thing I needed to work on during these cold winter months.