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Here is another project made with a deconsructed vintage kimono, like the curtains yesterday. This is a belt I sewed from kimono silk that features a kind of hand-painted stripe in pale colours, on a beige background. I really love this fabric, but after deconstructing the old kimono, the pieces were in long, narrow strips, so a belt seemed like a good option. I used a commercial pattern, New Look 6083, which I used once before here along with accompanying dress.

This new belt was made a bit longer (my waist is surely not what it used to be- sigh…) for ease of wrapping around and tying, and I think it will be a handy garment to wear over my favourite plain black dress. And more comfortable than the usual leather belt, too.

I found a pattern for a similar belt to make here, in case you're in the mood for a quick practical project.

Wishing you a very happy Tuesday, wherever you might happen to be. I'm currently listening to this song and getting excited about the upcoming Bon Iver concert for which we have tickets. 🙂

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5 responses to “a silk belt”

  1. Carol Avatar

    Love your new belt, thank you for the link to the pattern.
    I can’t listen to your linked music as it is past midnight but will save for another time.
    My latest CD is “50 Words for Snow” by Kate Bush.
    Hope you have a lovely Tuesday too.
    Carol xx

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  2. Hannah Avatar

    I love that style of belt, its so flattering.
    Bon Iver Tickets! LUCKY YOU!!!

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  3. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    Welcome to Wellington Melissa. Sorry you arrived just before the wind @ the weekend – but that’s about as bad as it gets… and then there are days like today and yesterday…. having lived overseas for 4 1/2 years, I understand the ache of missing family and home. I’ve had my longest school hol break in ages, and can assure you there are masses of things to explore – for all tastes, and for as much or as little as you like. All my best wishes for the change Mary x

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  4. Margaret Oomen Avatar

    it would look lovely as a hair band tie too

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  5. Bronwyn Lloyd Avatar

    I’m so glad that you’ve discovered the glorious Asia Gallery in Kilbirnie, Melissa. I bought a pile of kimonos from the $5 bin last time I was in Wellington, and have repurposed them into all kinds of other things.
    The unpicking process is remarkable. I love discovering the extra pieces of decorative fabric hidden inside some of the panels – I guess to strengthen some of the high-stress areas of the garment.
    It was a bit sobering to learn from the owner of the Asia Gallery, however, that the glut of kimonos that he sources and imports to NZ is due to the fact that traditional costume is becoming a thing of the past in contemporary Japan. It would be sad for an exquisite textile art form like the Kimono to die out, so I hope that never happens.
    All the best with settling into your new home.
    Bronwyn

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