Felt Friends from Japan

Felt Friends from Japan is a treasure trove of delightful felt projects--86 in all--including not just adorable soft toys, but also coin purses, bags, cell phone holders, badges, and flowers. Author Naomi Tabatha has gone for a retro feel, capturing the style she remembers from her childhood in Japan during the 1960s and 1970s. Here are Mini-mascot Buddies like Mom and Baby Kitty Cats, Little Elephants, Cheeky Monkey, Croaky Frog, Droopy-eared Dog, and Cuddly Koala; Soft Toys like Brown Bear, Rika the Rabbit, and Little Red Hood; Purrcy Pussycat and Mr. Sausage Dog, the Tabletop Duo; Forest Friends named Fumiko Fawn and Little Rabbit; and the Beret Buddies, Miki the Monkey and Pao the Elephant. Also included are Cute 'n' Fun Accessories like the Frog Coin Purse, the Sausage Dog Pencil Case and the Little Bear Card Case

Every project features clear step-by-step instructions accompanied by beautiful, full-color photographs and cut-out patterns; and an explanatory section covers the basic stitches and techniques used. Everything is hand-sewn and requires only felt and a needle-and-thread. Simple enough for crafters ranging in age from about 10 years old to adult, the book is sure to please anyone who loves creating cute things from felt.

After working for several toy manufacturers, Naomi Tabatha began freelancing as a 3D figure illustrator. Her original stuffed toys have graced countless magazine, book, and CD covers. She also creates baby goods and writes columns fo Japanese women's magazines. Her love of making things by hand is part of her eco-friendly lifestyle.