Handmade Leather Bags & Accessories (Design Originals)
Publisher Fox Chapel established the Design Originals imprint to capture arts-and-crafts ideas not necessarily available in the English language. This particular book is a case in point: it features the leather words of Taiwan-born Ho (now practicing in Japan), who brings an elegant sense of minimalist whimsy to handbags and accessories. Don’t expect a session in how-to basics or, for that matter, a logical progression of pattern-instruction. Instead, designs (all in color photographs) appear first, followed by very helpful illustrated step-by-step directions, and, in the back of the book, pattern templates. The actual instructions, too, are a bit unorthodox: the list of materials is replaced by color drawings (with dimensions) of each leather piece; the only written list belongs to other materials (e.g., embroidery thread and needle). All this underscores the almost universal appeal of Ho’s 28 creations, including a charmingly sophisticated polka-dot clutch, formal luxury shopping bag, and the eminently practical student backpack. Great design knows no geography. --Barbara Jacobs