House of Kimono is a RU-vid channel dedicated to all things Kimono. Learn how to make your own kimono from Japanese and Western fabrics, decorate your Kimono, and explore the history of this beautiful garment. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned kimono enthusiast, you'll find something to love on our channel.
Make Your Own Kimono with my easy to follow Kimono and yukata sewing patterns. The videos I make are made with these patterns so you can sew along with me! You can get the patterns here; www.etsy.com/au/shop/TheHouseOfKimono
Come and buy Kimonos from me at my website; www.alexdouglasnewton.com/kimonos
Yes I will! Oh great idea! You can get the pattern for a lined kimono here thehouseofkimono.etsy.com You really feel that luxury weight when you line a robe like this. You feel regal as you swish through the house, well i certainly do!
@@houseofkimono Yay! I'm self-taught and been making cotton yukatas since Covid and would love to create a lined one. I will take a look at the pattern, thank you! Also, I have been making an open side seams that are about 4-5" in length on the sides as vents. i have no experience how to add those ideas to it. But a video on a fully lined yukata would be awesome, thank you!
haha man I made a kimono out of old bed sheets, it looks really badass, and has just the "right sound" when you do karate moves (yes I'm very funny indeed), but sewing the collar was a pain in the buttocks! It's a delight to see how you do it here so effortlessly and beautifully! Next time I'll come back and watch this guide for sure! thank you!
I have always wanted to use bed sheets! They have such a great weight to them and theyre hemmed!!! Im so glad you found this video. This is the hardest part and took me lots of research to work out how to do it properly and then translate that to machine sewing so I means a lot that you appreciate it! Thank you!
What a gorgeous fantastically chic bolero kimono! Got a beautiful Lady McElroy cotton lawn last year, just the one last meter left. I couldn't find the right project to use my so small fabric on... up until today. So thank you!! Just bought your pattern too 😍 Keep up the good work 👌
Thank you so much and thank you so much for buying my pattern aswell!! This means so much to me! This will be amazing in a lawn like that and lawn is my favourite fabric for basically all my sewing! What kind of print do you have? Its going to be amazing! Perfect with a t and some jeans for brunch! So exciting!
@@houseofkimono ❤ It's the week-end getaway print, you know the one with folks basking in the sun. I'm thinking: why not use different fabric to make the collar and bow? Maybe in orange or green? I do like bold colours ❤🔥🌈
Oh yes! Great idea! The sash is where you use contrast! You can make a stunning outfit when you play with the obi colour scheme! In Japan the tradition is to compliment but never match the obi its fascinating to look at what they choose!
thank you so much!!😭😭 I'm a huge kimono fan who wanted to make a kimono by oneself for a long period of time, and your video is super helpful for fabrics. Adding to all the good words other commentators have said.
I cannot thank you enough for the depth, the detail and the breadth of this lesson in fabrics for yukata and kimono. The single best seminar on fabric I've ever seen.
Thank you so much! You are so kind and have made my day with the appreciation! I am so excited to make more videos soon and even more excited for right now because I am in Bangkok buying fabric to make more kimono and yukata!! Ive found some amazing textiles and cannot wait for you to see!
@@houseofkimono I cannot wait either. I used to frequent Bangkok often for years, and always loved the look of the Thai raw silks, but they were so stiff and structured, they kind of freaked me out!
They are soooo structured! The structure breaks down with wear so you grow into your kimono! It makes it this personal thing that you made that you have a story with!! I bought a silver saree the other day in singapore and cannot wait to work out how to use that!
Thank you for this video. So much valuable & useful information, will make a difference to my fabric choices in the future & opens up more possibilities
Ahh yes you can get it now on the etsy link. Use the code “YOUFAVE” for a 20% discount! I cannot wait to make another yukata! Im off to Bangkok soon for some serious fabric shopping!
@@houseofkimono while i think her style is cute, i have been struggling with her tutorial. but oh my gosh, i ripped the side seams out and now i can put it in the "Angel of the north" position and its SOOOOOOOO MUCH EASIER THANK YOU!!!!
I am going to mention gender. I am wondering about the left over right. If that is a male version & the female version is right over left like in western tradition? I acknowledge people are completely free to wrap their clothes around their body whichever way they choose regardless of gender. due to muscle memory as humans we tend to favour one way
All Kimono in Japan and East Asia are worn left over right. Wearing it right over left is reserved for the dead so it is not done by the living. A great way to remember, that I learnt from a Japanese friend is; “left over rice”.
@@houseofkimono well I am glad I asked. That is very useful information. Also I didn’t get the mnemonic until I saw it written down lol. A good way to remember. 😆😁
Awesome channel! This is the inspiration I need to make bolero length jacket to wear with sundresses over the Australian ‘winter’. & add a little dramatic flair to my wardrobe ❤Thank you for mentioning about the silhouette that was really useful information. It is lovely to hear these insights
@@houseofkimono black cotton I have on hand, a bit stiff & sheer, in a good way. I have plenty to experiment with as I am slowly building myself a small mostly handmade wardrobe ❤️ that I love, I understand this will be a lifelong pursuit. Adding & subtracting pieces over time
Its tough deciding! A cotton lawn is the easiest to sew, very comfortable, comes in every pattern and colourway and usually quite cost effective. All my favourite yukata are cotton lawn.
I’m beginning to develop an unhealthy obsession with making kimono 🤭. Super happy to have found your channel. Very helpful and informative. Keep up the amazing work !
Welcome to the club! Im so happy you are enjoying the videos! I am moving from the uk to australia and just had to ship all my kimono and silk it was very expensive! What is your favourite fabric to use?
@@houseofkimono Thank you for the warm welcome! I’m a big fan of natural materials like cottons, tweeds, twill. Recently, I discovered some designers out of S. Africa that are incorporating kimono styles ( I don’t believe that’s the correct term, more like the “jacket “ that goes over kimono) into streetwear….totally have me hooked on the look. While researching traditional makers here on YT, your channel popped up! So your definitely reaching your market 🙌 I completely understand the frustrations with the expense. When I moved here to Germany, I shipped my art from the states….bam! That about gave me a heart attack. So you have my sympathy. Hope that the move goes well and that your wonderful fabrics arrive safely 🤞
Ooohhh i have always wanted to make a kimono from a boucle tweed or something like that! I can just imagine a woman in a castle hotel in Scotland wearing one! Im so happy you found me! We are going to make wonderful things!
@@houseofkimonoit will be interesting to see how you go with the heat & humidity in Australia & how this will affect your choice of fabric. You will be spoiled for choice in the Asia-Pacific region! I am currently in the midst of sewing with batik fabrics making a knee length Kimono style jacket & dress in contrasting colour/pattern to wear together. Someone’s destashed fabric they gifted me, so even more satisfying to make ❤
I'm extremely new to sewing and was wondering what the measurements are for this pattern? Or is it standardized to 60" fabric, so the material is simply quartered like you are doing at the 9 minute mark? Then from there I'd presume I would just hem to my desired length sleeves and torso. Any insight is greatly appreciated! *Also I intend on using two strips of fabric for the migoro instead of 1, and am using the Oyoroi Hitatare template from Reconstructing History (really wish I found this video before I wasted $20 on it since it's impossible to follow half of it)
That is going to be amazing! Such a great garment! Yes this is a standardised pattern to 60" fabric. This makes a floor length yukata or Kimono with Taisho length 75cm / 30inch sleeves. You quarter it and simply cut straight through to create the two migoro. To get the length of your migoro hold a measuring tape at your shoulder and drop the end to where you would like the hem to sit. Add a hem allowance and then double that amount to find your migoro length. Have a look through my videos for collar attachment and seaming as well. This is going to be amazing! Im here if you need help!
@@houseofkimono thanks for such a quick response! I have all the materials I need and have been dreading layout process for the last couple of days. This will surely get me started on it today😁
I’m so grateful that I came across your channel. I’ve had a women’s tanmono for years and years, it was a gift from a Japanese friend, but I’ve never had the nerve to cut it to make a yukata till now. I am watching all of your videos and learning so much, but particularly getting some confidence to make a start! Thank you Alex for your detailed and clear explanations!! I’m definitely going to be doing this! Xxx
This makes me so happy! It is the hardest thing to first cut into that tanmono I know! Im so excited for you! There is a whole video that goes into great detail for attaching the collar that may come in handy and ofcourse I am here if you find yourself stuck and in need of some assistance! Go forth and sew!
Oh thank you so much!!! You have made my day with this comment! You can always ask me more if you need, I am a textile nerd! If you want the pdf just email me studio@houseofkimono.com What do you make?
@@houseofkimono I’ve made a Jinbe for the hot summer but I want to make a yukata. I’ve always wanted to tear fabric like this but I’m to nervous about mistakes.
It is nerve racking when you go to tear! You have to be confident BUT try on a smaller piece first just so you know you can rip through it! I learnt that the hard way with a brocade and ruined a half metre of beautiful silk!
Voile is light, super light but that is nothing compared to a chiffon and especially in silk. It is usually about twice as heavy but twice as heavy doesnt mean much when its twice as heavy as something that has no weight of you catch my drift. A chiffon isnt as closely woven so its more airy and etherial. It often has a twisted yarn so it is lovely and matte and in that way resembles the voile. This would be heaven in a silk chiffon! It will look amazing! Have a look at my video about how to attach the collar, you may want to line the collar if you dont want to see all the interior working. Im here if you need any help and please let me know how it goes!
@@houseofkimono well thank you for that. I am basically looking for the poor mama silk chiffon hahaha Something that has a full billowy drape, breathable, but holds its shape. I am also looking for someone to teach me how to make this dress I designed. I’m thinking I should take a class or find a seamstress ….
Chiffon is fab even if it isnt pure silk because of its weave, breathability all the way! I have two 5 metre bolts of viscose chiffon but its so fine that I am too scared to sew with it! Hahhaha Im much better with a dupion that I can throw about and push the iron through! What kind of dress are you making?
I do sell Yukata! This exact one I use every day so this is going no where! Hahaha but the other ones you see in the videos are for sale! I usually sell them through DMs but will start listing them on my website soon.
I am so happy to get a comment like this! Im glad my 1/4 scale video worked! Thank you so much! What will you make!? I have a Kimono and yukata sewing pattern you can get on etsy that goes with all my videos and Im always here if you have any questions. You can get the pattern here; www.etsy.com/au/listing/1694562970/paperless-diy-kimono-jacket-pattern-easy
Hello! I stumbled across this video and I would love to give this a try! I am completely new to sewing and just wanted to double check the fabric size as I got a little confused (I am in the USA) It sounds like you said 150cm or 60inches, and then is the 1 meter the width? online this looks to be about 40inches. but when I looked at these measurements on my fabric (60in x 40inch) it looked much larger than yours so I wanted to check. Sorry for the very noob question!
Im so excited youre making this! The fabric is 150cm / 60” wide and there is 1 metre of it. I think a metre is pretty much a yard, you may have noticed Im not great at imperial measurements! Hahahahah please let me know how it goes!
I just finished the sewing pattern and posted it today! It has taken me two months since making the jacket and Im so excited about it. Even if you dont buy the pattern on the etsy link there is more info about how much fabric you need and little images of the cutting plan! thehouseofkimono.etsy.com/listing/1694562970
Thank you for sharing this video. I really didnt get a chance to watch the whole thing. But i will watch it from begining to end. Sometime later I would really like to make a kimono. You have a nice day friend.
If you ever want to start with something easy I just today posted the sewing pattern for this jacket to my etsy! Im so excited for it, it took me ages to compose the pattern! thehouseofkimono.etsy.com/listing/1694562970
Thank you so much for sharing this project/technique! It looks fantastic and it is exactly what I was looking for to make something to have at the office for when I get a chill.
What a great idea! I used cotton poplin which made it really structured so if you want something a little flowy and softer go for a lawn or a voile. Ive got so many pieces of left over fabric to make this with, I have crepe de chine in black that is going to be a dream!
I have just posted the sewing pattern for the jacket to my etsy! It has the cutting method in this video and some variations if you use a narrow width fabric as well as some cool closure options! Im so excited about it! Its taken me months to put together! thehouseofkimono.etsy.com/listing/1694562970
Thank you so much! I have nearly finished painting the full scale yukata! It will take a while for me to make but then I will share it so keep an eye out!
I'm making keikogi for my naginata group. I've always had problems with my collars pinching at the shoulder, but now your tutorial has made all the difference. Thank you so much!
You have no idea what that means to me! Thank you so much that is exactly why I did all of this! It was and the toughest part to put together! In traditional Kimono the neckline is stretched with heat and water instead of cutting which I have to try soon! Im so happy you have found some answers and excited for your new keikogi! Let me know how the rest of the construction goes. Will you do the lines of topstitching on the collar?
@@houseofkimonoI'm glad my feedback brought you so much joy. I've been staring at various collars to try and work them out, and watched videos that just handwaved the whole attachment process. Yours is the only video that actually clearly walks someone through it. Yes, I'll do the topstitching for sure. (I find that helps hide mistakes! )
Yes you can and what a range of colours too! I just got some to try out some fabric painting ideas before I move to linen and silk! It will be a while till I post my progress on that but it can be done! What will you make?
i think maybe if i got to rip a ton of cotton it would undo all the trauma i sustained working as a bridal sewist. just the idea of ripping the shit out of beautiful cotton to make a garment that is more useful and appealing than 90% of the dresses i've ever had to intricately tailor is freeing and healing
Oh I can only imagine! Honestly its the best part of this. The pattern is so easy with tearing compared to the hours of curves and notches in regular cutting, plus no paper pattern!!! No paper weights!!! No trying to figure out if you have to add the SA or is it already incorporated AAAARRRRHHHGG!
@houseofkimono I don't work in tailoring anymore, I quit a year or two ago, because I have too many disabilities to be sewing as consistent work, but sewing and designing is always going to be a part of me. I studied kitsuke when I was getting my asian studies degree, and I haven't sewn anything in over a year, so I'm going through so many of videos to learn kimono sewing, because it is a lot more accessible and rewarding than jumping back into western clothing. You've been such a great resource, and material teaching kimono sewing that's accessible to English-speaking audiences is extremely valuable.
Great tutorial! My question is, can I create this by keeping the fabric whole, only cutting out the neckline and spacing for sleeves? Is it necessary to cut and make sleeves separate from the body?
Yes, absolutely! It makes an amazing garment when you do it that way and can be really fun to experiment with how wide you make the sleeves! It drapes a little different but its just as glorious! This is such a great and easy sewing project, there are so many ways to do it!
Thank you for replying!💕 I've been looking at traditional kimono, and it seems like it is standard to cut the sleeves separate. But to me, that arm seam seems pointless bc the seam is off of the shoulder and changes the look of the garment vs leaving the fabric whole and appreciating the craftsmanship of the tapestry design. Now, you say this affects the drape... I'm curious as to how... Going to make mini mock ups before I try the real thing on my good fabric, haha. I also want to experiment with sleeve length.
Amazing to hear someone trying mock ups first! This doesnt happen as much as it should. The sleeve seam allows you to have longer flowing sleeves rather than the kaftan version with no seam. So for “furisode” literally, waving sleeves, like you see on a maiko or a geisha you need the seam so the sleeve back can drape and move independently. Omitting the sleeve seam will still have gorgeous drape like a beautiful kaftan but doesnt have that separation and separate movement. Keeping the fabric uncut for the sake of the textile is a great decision! Each project is slightly different. I have never made two the same, there is always something to consider and tweak to get the best result! I cannot wait to hear how it goes!!
My fabric width was 112cm, followed along and kept thinking it looks too small. It was waaay to small. It's a tight fit on my adjustoform which is set to a UK size 8. Is a larger width fabric the way to go or do I have to actually measure myself and work it all out properly? I hate maths Alex. Any advice would be great.
If youre using 112cm fabric you divide into 3 not 4. I call this the narrow gauge fabric in the pattern its "fabric B". You need 4.5m of this one. In the video I used fabric that is 136cm wide which is just under the width of "fabric A". Have you downloaded the pattern? Either fabric will work but do check the pattern for the amount needed first and then you can set sail relatively maths free! Please ask me any more questions if you have them!
@@houseofkimono Oh! What a numpty I am! I did see on the pattern to divide into 3 but stupidly just followed along with the video. Never mind, I now have the skills to make another one (or two or three) and won't make the same mistake lol. Thanks for the help, you are fabulous 🥰
Ive done it so many times! If you have a small person in your life they can be a good use for the small panels of fabric! Thats how my nieces have so many tiny yukata and kimono! Hahahaha
No. You sew each front panel to each body panel. So each of those narrow front pieces has a seam with the body and the other side is the centre front. I think my description in the sewing pattern will help with that and my other videos will show it too. I hope that helps. Let me know how you get on!
Amazing!! What is this Thai Kaftan you are making! My mind is spinning with inspiration already! I have always wanted to but still never made a Kaftan!
@@houseofkimono haha, stop spinning, it’s nothing other than a batik ready made thing, a proper Thai one though,a neighbour gave it to me, was not going to use it but glad I did as it made me feel summery. I just cut out a circle for neck line and biased bound it. Sewed up sides..you know the thing, too basic for you though! Gorgeous turquoises and jades though! I have an iPad Pro but god knows what doing on it..having also seen Procreate today I may treat myself. God what a dinosaur I am, a lifetime ago, I studied textile design but it should have been fashion! Are you in London? I am in sleepy Somerset! X
Oh brilliant!! I love procreate! I have another channel where I do fashion illustration in procreate its linked somewhere on my profile here, its “alex douglas newton” its the best thing that ever happened when I started using it!! I used to live in Clifton just near the suspension bridge but this yeah I moved to Manchester! I would love to be a fashion designer, I think one day I will be. What would you make?
Well..what can I say?! I was about to cut the neck on Thai style kaftan when I took a breather and found you What is your name other than Mr Perfect Teacher! You are so full of passion, inspiration and motivation..perked me up for Spring I can tell you! One question. I am 5’4 ..What would be the minimum length of a piece of cloth I could use. I often come across bits in charity shops! Thank you so much xx
Oh wonderful! Im so glad you found me! Im Alex welcome! I love the sound of this Thai style kaftan. Thank you so much for the glowing review, it means the world to me that people are finding my videos helpful and myself engaging, you never know how you'll be received when you put yourself out there!
As for your height, at the start of the free sewing pattern it talks about 2 types of fabric, wide and narrow, roughly 150cm and 110cm respectively. Measure from your shoulder to the point at which you want your garment to fall, add a hem allowance and then double it. That is your body panel there are 2 of them and they are the longest panel you need to create. That will help dictate the length of fabric you'll need. When you download the pattern you'll receive some video about just this and always remember that you can patchwork a kimono together they are very easy pattern pieces to build from many sources of fabric!
Just so you know I have just posted the pattern to this jacket! So if you ever feel like making it you can get the pattern here; thehouseofkimono.etsy.com/listing/1694562970
Oh Im so excited! First of all, thank you so much for the love, next be sure to write if you have any questions and third please show me what youve made! White is amazing for this! What kind of fabric are you using?
YESSSS!!!! A million times yes! I've been dying to make one and was always to scared to do so. You really go step by step on every part of this. I really love it.
Oh fab! Yeah once I finished making this video I stood back and realised just how big it is! It should see you through though! Oh Im so excited for you! What fabric will you use?
I'm not totally sure yet on the fabric. I definitely need to think about that. Do you have recommendations for a newbie like me? You have given me so many ideas. I'm definitely going to watch all of your videos and get the patterns. You are seriously helpful. Thank you for actually explaining every detail. For once I'm not confused on how to make them.
You are so kind! Im glad I could provide some clarity! Im so happy youll use the videos! Theyre all there for just that! I always say use a nice cotton lawn or nice light cotton, especially for your first crack. I have done a fabric guide on the channel aswell but the headline is COTTON LAWN. It really does make the best and most comfortable yukata! Im always here if you cant decide!
Thank you so much! You are so kind. It was the fabric that determined the sizes. It is a bit narrower than usual so everything was slimmer on this yukata. I wish I could get more of this, its so luxurious feeling but so humble looking!
I've watched your helpful video on fabrics, and you've used lighter, drapery fabric. Have you ever used African wax print fabric (Ankara), or if it's too heavy? It's nearly the same width as this, and 6 yards/5.5m long. Helpful video, you're so enthusiastic about your subject!
African wax prints make amazing Yukatas!! This is so exciting! Yes use your fabric to make your Yukata. Check out my other videos, there is one where I make a linen yukata, that fabric is THICK and I went and lined it and still made something truly stunning! I know lots of people who have used a west african wax print and its amazing! Download the sewing pattern aswell its free and on the channel and I am here all the time for any questions you have!
Thanks for responding so quickly! I'll email you a photo of it when it's done, as long as it turns out ok! I've made coats and blouses and stuff, but never Japanese styled clothes, so this is an exciting trip into the sewing unknown. Lining it would be an excellent plan, I'll order a suitable lining. Cheers for your interesting channel
This is the BEST! Im currently making a linen cotton blend and it isnt rippable! I really missed it! The tearing sound cleans your soul hahhahaaha I go to Thailand in a few days so Im doing a fabric haul and theres going to be some ripping fabric in that!
