Years ago I discovered the amazing world of Japanese craft books. The books, although written in Japanese, are gorgeous, wonderfully photographed and the instructions are simple to follow.  I was hooked. Luckily we are a short drive to a great Japanese book store. They carry both Japanese craft books and magazines.  If there is an English translation, they’ll carry that too.

Then I discovered Pomodour’s Craft Café on eBay (she also has an Etsy shop) and I was sunk. I could browse Japanese craft books and magazines from the comfort of home, order online and pay about the same as I would downtown because shipping is always free (and fast!).  Yeah, I have a pretty big collection of books thanks in part to this great website.

Right now my favorite books are by Naoko Shimoda. These are a combination of a number of crafts but her stitching is my favorite.

She also carries fabric and a tremendous array of stationery goods including the lovely new patterned masking tapes. Have a look at her shop, I’m sure you’ll find something that you “need”.

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When I find fabulous artists I never wish that I could draw/stitch/create like them.  I’m always just glad to have found them and know that their art is there for me to come back to time and again.  I’ve decided to start featuring some of my favorites every Friday so that you can enjoy them too.