I just got Ayumi Takahashi‘s new book, Patchwork Please!  I have plenty to keep me busy for the next few weeks, but I know that eventually I’ll end up making lots of things from it because of how much I’ve loved her patterns in the past.  They’re easy to follow and so much fun to make, I end up making everything in multiples!  Like her Patchwork Wristlets, which actually taught me how to do zippers.

Her Fabric Basket tutorial is probably one of the most shared tutorials on the internet.  It’s also a great way to learn patchwork if you’re a beginner.  Her tutorials are very clear and take everything step by step.

They are great as gifts, so make lots!

My favorite so far might be her Checkerboard Tote from the Summer 2011 issue of Stitch magazine.  I made one for Mom using vintage sheets.

And one for my best friend.

Then one to keep!

And I can’t forget her lunch bag.  I made a couple for my sister in law and her best friend.

They’re also great toy totes!  Filled with bean bags, the totes make a great family gift for little ones.

So you can see why I wanted Ayumi’s new book, as her previous tutorials and patterns have taught me so much and helped me make wonderful things.  Off to read — Thank you, Ayumi!