Kimono Upcycled Business Card Cases

Ever since I started using kimono fabrics in my sewing, I thought about how to make use of the excess fabric without. The way kimonos are made and because of the amount of fabric used in a kimono, when reusing or upcycling them you are guaranteed to have more fabric than you need. This put me in a weird position. I didn’t “need” the excess fabric to finish the piece that I had designed but…What to do with the remainder? I hated wasting it but wasn’t sure what to do with all the fabric that inevitably remains after I finish a piece. 

I often have full kimonos given to me by family, friends and even sometimes donated by random kind strangers (thankful for the internet). Many of these pieces have sentimental value so trashing the unused fabric seems particularly wasteful. What to do about this? 

The item that I’m most happy about is these business card cases. It took me a few attempts to make them in the shape I like. I added interfaces on the back of the fabric to prevent it from being flimsy. There is a divider inside so you can store cards in two different compartments. People love to exchange business cards here in Japan! It’s probably less common in other parts of the world but here, I always carry around a card case. 

Well…,I came up with an idea. For the upcoming exhibition / pop-up, I’ve included items that are made out of the smallest kimono pieces I can found laying around my fabric closet. I challenged myself to make business card cases, masks, pouches, phone crossbodies and scrunches. 

This can be used not only as a card case, but also as a jewelry holder. It’s a perfect size for storing small stud earrings or dainty gold rings. You can bring it with you to the gym so when you work out, your jewelry is organized in one spot that you can find easily after shower. 

In an upcoming exhibition I’m participating in called POLYPHONIC, I’ll be showcasing my signature kimono upcycled jumpsuits and wrap dresses as well as light weight silk items that I made out of kimono lining. I took old kimono lining fabrics which had stains and discoloration and dyed them. The fabric has a soft tint of green, pink and blue, and is slightly sheer. They make great blouses, button ups and light weight wrap skirts. 

Please stop by to see them in person, starting next Tuesday 2/2. It ends on Sunday, 2/7.

Looking forward to seeing you!