This eight day craft retreat invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in Japanese textiles and making traditions. We move through Tokyo at a gentle pace, balancing hands-on workshops with time to wander, stitch, rest and notice the details that often get missed when travelling fast. You will stay in beautiful accommodation with your own private room, giving you space to fully settle in.

Throughout the week you will learn directly from skilled Japanese artisans through workshops including indigo and shibori indigo dyeing, sashiko, temari ball making, katazome resist dyeing, traditional weaving and kintsugi. We also share some of our favourite neighbourhoods, textile studios and craft shops that continue to inspire our own creative practices.
This retreat is about connection to place, creativity and community. If you are craving colour, inspiration and a slower, more meaningful way to experience Tokyo, we would love to welcome you on this journey.
See you in Tokyo!

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting plant materials and other items
• Testing cyanotype on paper
• Making a cyanotype fabric swatch
• Sewing your pin

Only a little sewing experience is required (straight stitch), making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted pin in a presentation box, ready to keep or gift to someone special.

The cyanotype process uses chemicals which many stain hands and clothes, Gloves and aprons will be provided. 

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
Timing: 2.5 hours
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Planning and designing  your unique earrings
  
• Selecting from a wide range of semi-precious beads
  
• Wrapping your beads with fine silver wire to form a securely wrapped bead
  

No experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning pair of handcrafted earrings in a presentation box, ready to gift to someone special.

Sharp craft metal snips and pliers are used throughout this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
Timing: 3 hours
Cost per person: ¥7500
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting your sakura mould, taken from a real cherry blossom tree
• Choosing your pendant shape
• Creating your pendant from precious metal clay
• Oxidising, polishing and burnishing your final piece

No jewellery experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted pendant on a silver chain presented in a gift box ready to gift to someone special.

Sharp tool and a gas torch will be  used in this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 1
Maximum number of participants : 4
Suitable for children: 10+
Timing: 3 hours
Cost per person: ¥16500
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting from a curated range of gorgeous vintage kimono fabrics 
  
• Designing your unique pattern/ image
• Using the kimekomi technique—tucking fabric neatly into grooves to create a smooth, elegant finish 

No sewing experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted bauble in a presentation box, ready to hang on your tree or gift to someone special.

Sharp craft knives are used throughout this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
1 adult per 2 children under 10
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 5
Suitable for children: 8+
Timing: 1.5 hours
Boards will be pre-cut . Children will not be using craft knives in this workshop.
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea, coffee and juice included

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting from a curated range of gorgeous vintage kimono fabrics 
  
• Designing your unique pattern 
  
• Using the kimekomi technique—tucking fabric neatly into grooves to create a smooth, elegant finish 
  

No sewing experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted decor ball, ready to display or gift to someone special.

Sharp craft knives are used throughout this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 5
1 adult per 2 children
Suitable for children: 8+
Timing: 1.5 hours
Kimekomi balls will be pre-cut . Children will not be using craft knives in this workshop.
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea, coffee and juice included

Time: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Perfect for:

• Textile lovers
• Upcycling enthusiasts
• Anyone curious about kimono

Please note: This is not a kimono dressing experience. If you’d like to try wearing kimono, I can arrange it as an optional add-on to your tour.

Location: Tour begins at Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa

Welcome & Inspiration

• Enjoy welcome tea and a traditional Japanese snack
• Learn about different types of kimono, their parts, accessories, and how to shop for them
• Visit 2–3 inspiring spots where kimono are reimagined in creative ways

Lunch
Savor a delicious local lunch — included in your tour.
Shopping
Explore 3–5 carefully selected kimono shops for unique finds and hidden treasures.

Tour Details:

• Available Thursdays and Fridays only
• Group size: 2–10 people

Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Perfect for:

• Crafters
• Textile enthusiasts
• Upcyclers
• Anyone curious about kimono

Please note: This is not a kimono dressing experience. If you’d like to try wearing kimono, I can arrange it as an optional add-on to your tour.

Location: Tour begins at Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa

Morning

• Enjoy a welcome tea and a traditional Japanese snack
• Create your own kimekomi bauble in a hands-on workshop

Lunch
Dine like a local — lunch is included in the tour.
Shopping & Inspiration
Visit 3–5 kimono shops and inspiring locations that showcase creative ways kimono are being reimagined today.

Tour Details:

• Available Thursdays and Fridays only
• Group size: 2–6 people

Time: 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Perfect for:

• Textile enthusiasts
• Upcyclers
• Anyone curious about kimono

Please note: This is not a kimono dressing experience. If you’d like to try wearing kimono, I can arrange it as an optional add-on to your tour.

Location: Tour begins at Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa

Welcome

• Enjoy welcome tea and a traditional Japanese snack
• Learn about kimono types, their parts, and accessories in a short presentation

Shopping
Explore 3–5 kimono shops featuring beautiful vintage and modern pieces.

Tour Details:

• Available Thursdays and Fridays only
• Group size: 2–10 people

Step into the cozy, creative atmosphere of Studio Biku and learn the traditional Japanese craft of kimekomi while making your very own beautiful fabric-covered Christmas bauble.

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!