Japanese Paper Yarn
Using Washi and Kami-ito to Knit, Crochet, Weave, and More
Andra F. Stanton
‘To all who are curious, brave, and compassionate’ - the opening words of this book open a question mark in my mind - why would I need to be brave to read this book?
I have heard and I am sure you have too, of the popular Sashiko, maybe even Kintugi terms, but this transition to paper yarn is new to me. Maybe that is why the author asks us to be curious.
Forward
Make sure you read this, as it helps to understand the book itself. Suddenly it is making sense - I had not previously heard of Japanese paper yarn, due to it’s fragile nature. It has not survived the test of time, as other Japanese art forms have, for example pottery.
The point of this book
Do not look at this book and walk away in mind when you observe the intense beauty but impossibility of the sculptural clothing pieces made from harn on page eight. This book is not about making the massive, the mad…it is about taking this beautiful method on board as a craft. A craft you can use in your own way - i.e. do you knit? Crochet?
What is clever about this book…
Is that it gives us images of the level of complexity this craft can become, then it takes it down to the bare basics, to make it universally approachable. Methods are explored with care for imagery and guidance. Projects such as knots, woven coasters and paper beads are transcribed for us.
Terms
All the Japanese words are explained - no need to go research.
Conclusion
No, I might not go away and make a dress, a self portrait or a plant dyed hand knitted pair of slippers; but I might just consider a bead and go from there. Make it your level, make it small….build from there.
There are many Japanese art forms, which take into consideration both life matters and art itself. So I see this aspect within this book itself too. Consider other art forms…Kintsugi - the art of mending with gold. This often gets used within a self care principle too. Or take on board Sashiko, beautiful stitched methods, made by hand…both soothing and practical. Japanese Paper Yarn can be used in this way too - mend yourself and build your confidence via its use.
So walk your mind into this book and if you wish to purchase a copy, find it located here.