Tucked away in an abandoned Akiya—a house filled with memories, dust, and forgotten treasures—was a beautiful collection of vintage kimono, waiting to be rediscovered. During a recent visit, I was invited to take as many as I wanted, and what I found was truly special.
This home is now being lovingly restored, and many of its pieces feel like time capsules from a life once fully lived.
This video takes you along for the journey. It’s a longer one, perfect for a slow moment with a cup of tea—or save it to your watchlist for when you’re ready to explore.

Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission.

In a world where fast fashion dominates, mending is a simple way to extend the life of your clothes and reduce waste. I’m excited to introduce MEND, a workshop focused on quick and easy clothing repairs, where I’ll show you how to fix and restore your favorite garments by hand.

This hands-on workshop focuses on practical, quick, and easy mending techniques that anyone can learn. Whether you have a tear in your tee, a hole in your jeans, or a stain on your shirt, I’ll teach you the simple skills to fix them yourself.

What You’ll Learn
In this workshop, you’ll learn:

1. Basic introduction to visible mending- Getting started with the equipment, make a swatch of practice stitches to use later
2. Simple fixes: How to fix a small hole or cover a stain using visible stitching, a quick and effective technique for repairs.
3. Reinforcement Patch: How to apply a fabric patch to reinforce areas of wear or cover a larger hole, ensuring your garments stay strong and durable.

Included in the Workshop
You’ll receive a basic mending kit with all the tools you need in the class and to continue your mending at home, including needles, thread, fabric scraps, scissors and more.
To take part in the workshop, participants are asked to purchase a drink from Communita Cafe.

Details
Saturday 17th May 2025
Responsible Marche in Meguro
Impact HUB Tokyo
2-11-3 Meguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo

¥3000
Includes a mending kit to take away with you
(Please purchase a drink from the Cafe to take part)

Session 1: 11:00-12.15
Session 2: 12:15-13:30

All materials will be provided. No experience is necessary—just come ready to learn and get creative.
Spaces are limited, so sign up today and join me for a hands-on session of mending and creativity.

Why Mending Matters
Mending isn’t just about fixing clothes—it’s a way to slow down and care for the things you already have. Instead of tossing out items when they get damaged, mending helps you extend their life and reduce waste. It’s a simple practice that helps you save money and keeps your clothes in use for longer.

Come Along
Rediscover the value in what you already own. With a few simple stitches, you can bring your clothes back to life.

What a beautiful morning we had on April 4th at Studio Biku, right in the heart of Shimo-Kitazawa. Gather & Mend was never meant to be a workshop — just a gentle, welcoming space to sit together, drink tea, and quietly mend the clothes we love.

From 10 to 12, the studio filled with the soft sounds of snipping threads, gentle conversation, and the occasional burst of laughter. Some folks brought well-worn jeans, others a favourite sweater with a tiny stain or some well-worn socks to darn — each piece carried its own little story, stitched back together with care.

There’s something special about slowing down in good company, needles in hand and no pressure to perform. Just time to connect — with our things, with ourselves, and with each other.

After our slow stitchy morning, we took a short stroll over to Sidewalk Coffee at the Mustard Hotel. Good coffee, tasty lunch, and more time to chat — the perfect way to wrap up a sweet and simple day of gentle making and shared moments.

These are the kinds of gatherings that remind me why I do what I do — quiet, thoughtful, low-key joy. If you missed this one, don’t worry. There will be more. Bring your mending pile and your stories. There’s always a seat for you at the table.
Until next time,
Victoria x

In a world of fast fashion and disposable trends, Gather & Mend is a refreshing invitation to slow down, connect, and care for the clothes we already own. This new community event brings people together to repair and refresh their wardrobes, fostering both creativity and sustainability on the first Friday of every month.

At Gather & Mend, participants can try out basic mending techniques, share skills, and breathe new life into their favorite garments. Whether it’s darning a sock, patching up a beloved pair of jeans, or adding decorative stitching to a worn-out sweater, the event encourages thoughtful repair over replacement.
More than just a practical workshop, Gather & Mend is about community—sharing stories, ideas, and a collective commitment to reducing waste. It's a space where sustainability meets creativity, proving that small stitches can make a big impact.

Join us for an upcoming Gather & Mend session and rediscover the joy of making things last!
The event is free, with a suggested donation of ¥500 to cover tea and coffee and use of the space. Spots are limited, so please book in advance.

Gather & Mend sessions take place on the first Friday of every month at 10:00-12:00.

Is this a workshop?
No, this is a creative gathering where we will teach techniques to each other, chat, share ideas and mindfully fix our clothing.
Do you provide tools and materials?
Tools and materials are not provided, Please bring an item of clothing to work on and everything you need for your project (scissors, thread, needle).
What happens if I book a spot and can't make it?
There are only 6 spots available each month, so please be mindful when booking. Let Victoria know as soon as you would like to cancel so we can try to fill your spot.
When do I pay my donation for the event?
You can donate your ¥500 on the day of the Gather & Mend event.
Can I bring food into the studio?
Cookies, cakes and snacks to share with others are welcome. There are no plates or forks available. We will be finished before lunch time, so you can visit one of the many lunch spots in Shimokitazawa after the event finishes.
Can I bring a friend or my child?
Please book a ticket for your friend/ child. The studio is not set up for children under 8.
Where is the studio?
Find the access information to Studio Biku here.

WHERE: Nakai/ Ochiai Stations, Tokyo
WHEN: 3rd weekend in February

Imagine walking through a quiet neighborhood in Tokyo… but suddenly, the streets come alive with color! Silk, cotton, and intricate patterns dance in the breeze. This is Some no Komichi, a festival that celebrates Tokyo’s deep history of traditional dyeing!
Today, we’re exploring the Some no Komichi festival in Nakai, Tokyo—a hidden gem where artisans and history lovers come together to celebrate the beauty of hand-dyed textiles. If you love crafts, natural dyeing, and Japanese culture, you’re going to love this!
Some no Komichi, which means 'Dyeing Alley,' takes place every year in late February in Nakai, a neighborhood once famous for its textile industry. During the Edo and Showa periods, this area was home to many dyeing workshops, and even today, you can find traces of that history.

This festival started in 2011 to revive and showcase the art of traditional dyeing, which was slowly disappearing. And now, it’s one of the most unique cultural events in Tokyo!
One of the most breathtaking sights is the River Gallery. These long, hand-dyed fabrics, called 'tanmono,' are hung over the Myoshoji river, just like artisans used to do when drying their work. The colours and patterns reflect the rich history of Japanese textile arts. And the best part? You can actually try it yourself! There are workshops where you can dye your own fabric using natural dyes or traditional methods. It’s an amazing way to connect with this art form and take home a unique souvenir!

As you walk through the streets of Nakai, you’ll find local businesses and workshops decorated with beautiful dyed textiles. And one of the most iconic sights is the noren—those traditional fabric dividers hanging at shop entrances.
Noren have been used in Japan for centuries, not just as decoration but also as a sign of a shop’s identity. In the past, dyeing studios in this area would proudly display noren featuring their unique family crests or patterns. Today, during Some no Komichi, artisans create stunning hand-dyed noren using traditional techniques like shibori (tie-dye), katazome (stencil dyeing), and yuzen (resist dyeing).
Each noren tells a story. Some feature nature-inspired motifs, while others showcase intricate geometric designs. It’s a way for artists to express their creativity while keeping this beautiful tradition alive.
Some no Komichi is more than just a festival—it’s a tribute to Tokyo’s forgotten textile heritage. Many of these dyeing techniques are at risk of disappearing, but thanks to events like this, they are being passed down to the next generation.
As someone who loves natural dyeing, I find so much inspiration here! Seeing how these artisans bring color to life reminds me why traditional crafts are so important.

Discover the art of dyeing fabric using chestnuts in my latest video, "Dye Fabric with Chestnuts for a Natural & Unique Look (2024)."
Join me as I explore this sustainable and eco-friendly method to create beautiful, earthy tones that will elevate your textile projects! In this tutorial, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing chestnuts for dyeing, selecting the right fabrics, and achieving stunning color results, including color-shifting using an iron bath.
Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a curious beginner, this technique offers a unique way to add a natural touch to your wardrobe or home decor. Learn about the properties of chestnut dye, tips for ensuring long-lasting colors, and embrace the beauty of nature and transform your fabrics into one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal style.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more creative tutorials on natural dyeing and sustainable crafting techniques. Let's get started on this colorful journey together!

Setting up a YT account is free (unless you want to remove ads) and is a great way to consume content on your tablet, mobile, PC or Smart TV without getting stuck in the scroll.
Having a YT account does not mean you have to upload any videos of your own, although it's also free for you to share your thoughts and passions too if you get the bug.
This post is all about setting up as a viewer of content rather than as a creator.

HOW TO JOIN YOUTUBE AS A VIEWER ONLY? WITH A GMAIL ADDRESS

1. Go to YouTube’s Website
Open your browser and go to YouTube.com.

2. Click on "Sign In"
On the top right corner of the page, you’ll see a “Sign In” button. Click on it.

3. Sign In with Your Google Account

• If you already have a Google account (Gmail), sign in using your email address and password.
• If you don’t have a Google account, click on “Create account” and follow the steps to create a Google account.

4. Verify Your Account
If needed, verify your Google account by providing a phone number or other required details.

HOW TO JOIN YOUTUBE AS A VIEWER ONLY? WITHOUT A GMAIL ADDRESS

1. Go to Google Account Creation Page:
Visit Google Account Signup

2. Select "Use my current email address instead":

• On the signup form, under the “Username” field (which usually prompts for a Gmail address), you’ll see an option that says “Use my current email address instead.” Click on that link.

3. Enter Your Non-Gmail Email Address:
In the email field, enter the non-Gmail email address you want to use (for example, Yahoo, Outlook, or any other provider)

4. Create a Password:
Choose a password for your Google account and fill in the required personal details (such as your name, birthday, etc.).

5. Verify Your Email Address:
Google will send a verification email to the non-Gmail address you provided. Open that email and follow the instructions to verify your account.

6. Complete Setup:
Once you’ve verified your email address, your Google account will be created, and you can now use it to sign in to YouTube.

7. Sign In to YouTube:
After your Google account is created, go to YouTube.com and click on “Sign In.”
Use your newly created Google account (with the non-Gmail email) to log in.

Now you can watch videos, like, comment, subscribe to channels, and use all other YouTube features as a viewer!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I Need to Create an Account to Watch Videos?

• No, you can watch videos on YouTube without creating an account. However, without an account, you won’t be able to like videos, comment, subscribe to channels, or save videos to watch later.

How Do I Sign Up for YouTube as a Viewer Only?

• You can sign up for a Google account (which is required for YouTube) and use it only to watch videos. Simply:
  1. Go to YouTube and click on "Sign In."
  2. Sign in with a Google account.
  3. Start watching videos without uploading content.

Can I Subscribe to Channels as a Viewer?

• Yes, once you sign in with your Google account, you can subscribe to your favorite channels. This helps you keep track of new videos and content from creators you like.

What Features Are Available to Me as a Viewer?

• As a viewer, you can:
  1. Like and dislike videos.
  2. Subscribe to channels.
  3. Leave comments.
  4. Save videos to watch later or create playlists.
  5. Use the YouTube app across devices (smartphones, tablets, TVs, etc.).

Can I Use YouTube's Premium Services as a Viewer?

• Yes, YouTube Premium offers additional benefits such as ad-free viewing, background play on mobile, and access to YouTube Music. You can subscribe to these services even if you're only watching videos.

Do I Need to Pay to Watch Videos?

• No, watching videos on YouTube is free. However, there are paid services such as YouTube Premium and YouTube TV that offer additional features.

Can I Control My Privacy as a Viewer?

• Yes, YouTube allows you to control your privacy settings. You can manage your history, subscriptions, and personalized recommendations under Settings.

What Happens if I Don’t Have a Google Account?

• To fully participate in YouTube (liking videos, subscribing, etc.), you need a Google account. You can create one using a Gmail or non-Gmail email address.

Will Other People Know What I’m Watching?

• No, your watch history is private unless you explicitly choose to share it or make playlists public. You can also pause or delete your watch history in your settings.

Can I Use YouTube on My Mobile Without an Account?

• Yes, you can watch videos on the YouTube mobile app without signing in. However, like the desktop version, you won’t be able to like, comment, or subscribe without an account.

By understanding these FAQs, you'll be able to navigate YouTube more efficiently as a viewer-only user.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!
If you're reading this and have subscribed to my channel on YT, THANK YOU!
This week I'm chatting all about the pros and cons of having a channel and all the amazing things I've learned.
I love sharing my passions about thrifting, crafting and life in Japan and hope you enjoy it too. I've got so much respect and love for YT creators out there who are all working hard to bring you stellar content to enjoy for free. And I will continue to bang this drum until my energy runs dry.

Please visit my channel for a browse and hit the subscribe button if it's something you'd like to see more of.

This week I'm doing a make-over on the genkan (hallway) in my tiny Shimokitazawa (Tokyo) studio by laying new flooring and installing Japanese shoji (paper) doors to cover up the terrible system bathroom.

If you're in Tokyo, pop in for a chat and a browse in the tiny shopping area representing 12 international makers based in Japan.

LINKS
SHOP KIMONO JEWELLERY
VISIT STUDIO BIKU
WORKSHOPS
INSTAGRAM
GOLD STAR MOVING SERVICES

Welcome to my exciting creative adventure where I explore the art of dyeing fabrics with black beans!

In this video, you'll learn how to create stunning, natural dyes using simple ingredients right from your kitchen. Black beans not only provide a rich, deep color but also offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes.

Join me as I guide you through the step-by-step process of what you need to do to prepare your fabrics, extracting the dye from black beans, and achieving beautiful results. Whether you're looking to upcycle old clothes or create unique textile art, this method is perfect for you! 🌿
What you'll learn in this video:

• How to prepare black beans for dyeing
  
• The best fabrics to use for natural dyeing
• Tips and tricks for achieving vibrant colors
  
• Creative ideas for making interesting fabrics

Guacamole fans, here's your chance to use up your avocado skins and pits.

Follow my dye recipe to learn how to make a beautiful pink dye that's kind to you and the planet. New schedule for workshops and classes is out now. BOOK HERE

In this exciting DIY video, join me as I explore the vibrant streets of Shimokitazawa in Tokyo and discover a unique way to dye fabric using olive leaves found right on the sidewalk! 🌿✨

Watch as I transform plain fabrics into beautiful colours using natural dyes extracted from these beautiful leaves. This eco-friendly and creative project is perfect for anyone interested in sustainable fashion, crafting, or simply looking for a fun activity to do at home. I’ll guide you through the entire process, from foraging for natural materials in the city to preparing the dye and applying it to the fabric.

Don't miss out on the tips and tricks I share to achieve the best color results! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, you're sure to be inspired by this innovative technique. If you enjoy this video, make sure to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more creative projects and sustainable crafting ideas! Let's dive into the world of natural dyeing and give new life to your fabrics with nature's palette. 🌈🧵

Join me as I go about my day as a creative business owner in the vibrant city of Tokyo! From morning prep at home with the family to dog walking in the vibrant neighbourhood of Shimokitazawa. From brainstorming sessions to a pop-up at a top Shinjuku hotel, we’ll dive deep into the unique challenges and triumphs faced by entrepreneurs in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

In this video, you'll get an insider's look at the daily routines, creative processes, and innovative strategies that keep a business thriving amidst Tokyo's fast-paced environment. Experience the fusion of tradition and modernity, as I welcome you into my tiny, vintage atelier built in 1971.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative soul, or simply curious about life in Tokyo, this video offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective on what it takes to succeed in the creative business landscape. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring content on entrepreneurship and creativity!

#Tokyo #CreativeBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #DayInTheLife #BusinessOwner #TokyoLife #Inspiration

Considering Japan is such an organised and punctual place, it can be a little surprising that markets and shrine sales are often cancelled due to weather, holidays and other events, sometimes at a moment's notice.
Always call ahead (usually in Japanese), check the weather forecast and find out if there is a holiday or other reason the event is not taking place.
Vendors start packing up much earlier than the sales finish, so get there at least a couple of hours before the end to get the best experience.

Below is a list of flea markets and shrine/ temple sales I recommend, some are better than others, some are prettier and more relaxing with less vendors, some are busy and vibrant. There are lots more sales around the greater Tokyo area, but let's start with a small list.
The times below are subject to change, so don't come at me if you get there and there are no stalls!

NARITASAN KAWAGOE BETSUIN HONGYOIN 'KAWAGOE ANTIQUE MARKET'
28th of every month
An antique sale in a beautiful buddhist temple in  Kawagoe which is known as 'Ko-Edo' (Little Edo).

Station: Hon Kawagoe or Kawagoe
(80 mins approx from Tokyo in Saitama)
Time: 6am-4pm

SETAGAYA BOROICHI
15-16th January/ 15-16th December every year
400 year old market in Setagaya. Go early in the morning as it gets very busy. Great prices and the widest range of antique good anywhere.

Station: Setagaya (Setagaya Line Tram from Sangenjaya)
Time: 9:00 until around 8:00 pm

MACHIDA TENMANGU
1st of every month
Station: Machida
Time: 7am-4pm

TOMIOKA HACHIMAN-GU
1st, 2nd 4th & 5th Sundays
Station: Monzen-Nakacho
Time: 6am-5pm

GOKOKUJI
2nd Saturday
Station: Gokokuji
Time: 6am-3pm

OEDO ANTIQUE MARKET
1st & 3rd Sunday
Station: Yurakucho
Time: 9am-4pm

OI RACECOURSE FLEA MARKET
Every weekend
Mix of antique/ vintage and newer secondhand items
Station: Oikeibajo-mae/ Tachiaigawa
Time: 9am-4pm

HEIWAJIMA ANTIQUES FAIR
5 times a year. Next Fair: 6,7,8 December 2024
Station: Ryutsu Center
Time: 10am-5pm (last entry 4pm)

Welcome to our exciting unboxing of the stunning Kimono Neckpiece Collection! 🎉
In this video, we reveal the intricate designs and unique craftsmanship behind these beautiful neckpieces made from personally-sourced, authentic vintage kimono.

Join me as I explore each piece, showcasing its vibrant colors and elegant details that make these neckpieces a must-have addition to your jewelry collection. Whether you’re a jewellery enthusiast or simply looking for inspiration for your next accessory purchase, this collection is sure to captivate your heart!

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more amazing jewelry unboxings, craft tutorials and life in Japan content.
🌟 10% off your first jewellery order when you subscribe to the newsletter HERE
Shop the Collection HERE

Dyeing fabric with nasty chemical dyes isn't good for you or the planet. This video shows you how you can create beautiful fabrics by simply dyeing with discarded onion skins.

Camera Setup Camera: https://amzn.to/3Yu5gB2
Tripod: https://amzn.to/3Suz7VS
Soft box light: https://amzn.to/3yoVipL
Mic: https://amzn.to/3A9d3dc

Alum: https://amzn.to/4dONv3t
Soda Ash: https://amzn.to/3SRELlg

=====================================
10% off your first jewellery order when you subscribe to the newsletter : https://www.bikudesigns.com/sign-up.html

Have you ever tried natural dyeing? How did it go? What natural materials should I dye with next?
Comment below.

Music and sound effect by Epidemic Sound. Start your free trial here: https://share.epidemicsound.com/su21ps

This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission.

About Victoria: I'm Victoria Close, designer, maker and teacher of jewellery, accessories and crafts based in Shimokitazawa in Tokyo. I'm a long-time Tokyo dweller (over 25 years) with a passion for mottainai (the regret of waste when something still has life left in it), vintage thrifting and any kind of craft. This channel is all about my love of crafts, both Japanese and non-Japanese, traditional and modern, vintage shopping, free finds, my atelier and tiny shop as well as my life in Japan. I’d love to see you at my studio in Shimokitazawa soon. 

Shopping at a shrine in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan.
Come with me as I search for treasures at the Hanazono Flea Market (open almost every Sunday from early!)

Camera Setup
Camera: https://amzn.to/3Yu5gB2
Tripod: https://amzn.to/3Suz7VS
Soft box light: https://amzn.to/3yoVipL
Mic: https://amzn.to/3A9d3dc

SHRINE SALE KIT
Summer
Mosquito repellent: https://amzn.to/4dfOrhv
Mosquito ointment: https://amzn.to/3yyqxih
Winter
Disposable hot packs:https://amzn.to/4fBf4ix
Recharable kairo: https://amzn.to/3SLfGsh

10% off your first jewellery order when you subscribe to the newsletter : https://www.bikudesigns.com/sign-up.html

QUESTION: Have you ever been to a shrine market in Japan? Which one is your fave? Comment below.

Music and sound effects by Epidemic Sound. Start your free trial here: https://share.epidemicsound.com/su21ps

This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission.

About Victoria: I'm Victoria Close, designer, maker and teacher of jewellery, accessories and crafts based in Shimokitazawa in Tokyo. I'm a long-time Tokyo dweller (over 25 years) with a passion for mottainai (the regret of waste when something still has life left in it), vintage thrifting and any kind of craft.
My YouTube channel is all about my love of crafts, both Japanese and non-Japanese, traditional and modern, vintage shopping, free finds, my atelier and tiny shop and life in Japan. I’d love to see you at my studio in Shimokitazawa soon.