Book Review – Sewing Happiness: A Year of Simple Projects for Living Well

A how-to guide and personal memoir full of sewing projects and inspiring stories that promote creativity, happiness, and fulfillment

When Sanae Ishida was diagnosed with a chronic illness and lost her corporate job, she thought her life was over. Suddenly faced with unexpected challenges, she was forced to take stock of her life. What was most important to her? What brought her joy? These reflections led her to rediscover her true passion: sewing.

Inspired to succeed at just one thing, Ishida vowed to sew all of her daughter’s clothes—and most of her own—for one full year. In Sewing Happiness, Ishida recounts her incredible journey, reflecting on how sewing helped her survive such a difficult time in her life. Part memoir, part how-to guide, it features twenty sewing projects and variations (including Japanese-inspired home goods, children’s and women’s clothing), all organized by season and stitched together with Ishida’s charming anecdotes. Complete with photos and easy-to-follow steps, Sewing Happiness is at once a guide to the craft and a guide to enjoying life in all its beautiful imperfections.

Next Pattern:

Christmas is one of those holidays that you just can decorate too much for. There’s no limit to the amount of holiday cheer you can bring into you home! There’s no such thing as too many Christmas decorations. You can bring Christmas décor into any room of the house – including the kitchen! Which is kind of fitting given how many Christmas activities and gifts are made in the kitchen. We’ve rounded up 13 Christmas kitchen accessories you can sew for your home or to give as gifts.

The list includes holiday themed hot pads, potholders ,aprons, and more that you can sew and decorate your kitchen all season long. Most are things you can make in an evening or less. These would also make wonderful hostess gifts for any holiday parties or gatherings you’re attending. Read on for the kitchen sewing ideas!