Nostalgic yet New, My Favorite Handmade Items ~Part 1~

With striking designs and a touch of nostalgia, illustrator Sabu's punch needle and patchwork creations possess a unique and unforgettable worldview. Drawing inspiration from the good old Showa era, her magical craftsmanship transforms familiar elements into something entirely new. We delved into the secrets behind her creative process, brimming with unwavering love for handmade craftsmanship.

Until I discovered the joy of handicrafts

Sabu says that since she was little, she has enjoyed searching for cute fabrics at craft stores and doing small crafts. "My grandmother, with whom I lived, was a super grandma who could do both Japanese and Western sewing. I tried to learn from her, but in the world of sewing, you have to start by thoroughly mastering the basics. I just couldn't get used to doing things by the rules, and I hated it (laughs), so I didn't enjoy it very much. I also loved drawing, so my path led me towards illustration."

After graduating, I worked as an illustrator, but I couldn't quite solidify my own style. After getting married and having children, I continued to search for my path as an artist. It was during this time that I rediscovered the joy of making things by hand through the experience of creating something for my child.

"It's okay if it's not perfect, it's okay if it doesn't sell, I can just immerse myself in the pure joy of creating! Making things by hand in a place where I'm free from the constraints of expression and work is truly enjoyable. As I became engrossed in making fabric toys and kindergarten supplies, I felt like a new door opened within me."
　

A fateful encounter with the punch needle

　One day, Sabu learned about punch needle stitching from a friend. Punch needle stitching is a technique where you use a special needle threaded with yarn or other material to create stitches that resemble illustrations. She became completely captivated by the joy of being able to freely express her own world on fabric.

"I learned the techniques by watching videos from overseas and making things by trial and error. I was also happy that my ability to express myself expanded greatly through my encounter with a new material like yarn."
　

When he announced the finished rug on social media, it received an unexpected response. He quickly received an offer from a gallery in Harajuku to hold a solo exhibition. After its great success, a pop-up shop was also scheduled at Laforet Harajuku. Riding this unexpected wave, Sabu's creative activities became active once again.

"I was once again amazed by the power of handmade items. I don't think it would have turned out this way if it had just been illustrations. Handmade items are a natural part of everyday life, so I think that's why they've been so well-received by so many people."

Punch needle remains one of Sabu's core means of expression. He's gaining more and more fans, including requests from overseas.

"If it takes too long to get started, I get discouraged, so I just start working with my hands as soon as possible. I do have a rough idea of ​​what the finished product will look like, but it never turns out exactly like that. But that's okay. The fact that it doesn't always go as planned is the most fun part of crafting. Every time, I make something saying, 'Ah, it's fun that it didn't go well!' (laughs)"Second partTo be continued >
　

　

Illustrator and handmade craft artist Sabu

Born in Kanagawa in 1987. After graduating from a vocational school specializing in illustration, she entered the world of antiques and has been working as an illustrator since 2012. In addition to primarily watercolor paintings, she has also published numerous handmade works such as punch needle and patchwork. In 2021, she published her art book, "Maybe Handmade" (self-published). Instagram:subchanforever