Japanese Fabric Ball – ‘Kimekomi Mari’ Accessory Workshop

This workshop introduces the traditional Japanese craft ‘Kimekomi Mari’ in a modern, sustainable way. Participants will decorate paper clay balls using a variety of ethically sourced materials, hand-selected in Japan by Izumi, such as kimono fabric, gorgeous liberty cotton prints, interesting pieces of leather and fabulous festive sparkles.

Izumi will demonstrate how to make the paper clay base at the beginning of the session, as drying time is too long for on-site making. Participants can then complete their own unique accessory, choosing to finish it as a necklace or a keychain, while enjoying a relaxing, mindful creative experience suitable for all skill levels.

Izumi Montgomery is a Japanese artist and workshop facilitator based in Sydney. After completing her Master of Fine Arts at Tokyo University of the Arts, she studied fashion design at TAFE and began creating wearable art and accessories using second-hand and upcycled materials. Izumi regularly runs sustainability-focused textile workshops at Reverse Garbage and community venues across Sydney.