Bag-making Experience
Create your own Mikan bag
Join me, Clémentine, in creating a very unique souvenir from your time in Kyoto. I’ve been conducting workshops since 2019 and many have loved these classes over the years, whether they took place here in my studio in Japan or abroad (Australia or France). No prior sewing skills are required, I welcome participants with all levels, including very beginners, and I can ensure that all participants leave with a well-finished bag, -and I quote them- “as good as one they could purchase in my store”.
What is it?
Mikan workshops are private experiences that can be booked for small groups (1-4ppl) and take place in Arashiyama, Kyoto. During the experience, you can take part in the making process of a unique bag made of vintage Japanese fabrics. You will learn about traditional fabrics and motifs, and choose you favourite textile from a vast selection of vintage kimono and obi. You can also choose your favourite bag design from the collection.
If you are looking for a full-day experience to learn and sew in a relaxed atmosphere, join the Bag Sewing Workshop (one-day) and leave with a finished bag at the end of the day. If you prefer to save your precious time in Kyoto for errands and visits, then the Bag Crafting Experience (2-hour) is for you. With this shorter experience, the finished bag will be sent to your hotel.
Option 1: The one-day workshop
In this Bag Sewing Workshop, you will create a bag from A to Z as I guide you every step of the way. You will leave with the finished bag at the end of the day. You can choose between two designs: the pleated bumbag or the origami clutch.
10:00 - 17:00 (time may vary depending on group size and sewing experience)
This activity is for you if:
・you are new to sewing and want to learn more
・you like sewing and want to learn new skills and experience sewing with traditional Japanese fabrics
・you want to book a creative and relaxing activity in Kyoto, to create new memories with friends or family (children are)
Price:
from 110 $US to 160 $US (the price depends on the bag design)
Option 2: The 2-hour experience
This shorter version of the experience lasts a couple of hours and no sewing is involved. This way we can start the bag-making together (selecting, cutting and preparing the fabrics and deciding on design elements) and I will sew it for you while you carry on your Kyoto adventures. The finished bag will be sent to your hotel or home address. You can choose between 6 bag designs.
10:00 - 12:00 (an earlier time can be discussed)
This activity is for you if:
・you are looking for a special souvenir from your time in Kyoto or want to create a special gift for a loved one
・you want to learn more about traditional fabrics and Japanese crafts and designs
Price
From 75 $US to 220 $US (depending on the bag design)
Bag designs & offer
Origami Clutch
Available in both one-day workshop and 2-hour experience.
160 $US
Travel pouch set
Available in the 2-hour experience.
85 $US
Pleated Bum bag
Available in the one-day workshop.
This one is a bit softer than the bum bag in my store (hard bum bag).
110 $US
Hard Bum bag
Available in the 2-hour experience.
This is the same bum bag you can find in my store.
130 $US
Phone bag
Available in the 2-hour experience.
This is the same item you can find in my store. A slightly bigger version is also possible for an extra 10$US.
80 $US
Tablet sleeve
Available in the 2-hour experience.
Can be made to size depending on your iPad / tablet model.
75 $US
Weekender
Available in the 2-hour experience.
220 $US
FAQ
What is I am not good at sewing or creating with my hands?
This is not a problem. I have welcomed first time sewers before and their bags were just as good! I think I am someone who is very patient and will guide carefully through the whole process if you wish to challenge yourself with the full-day workshop. But, if you feel that sewing for a full day might be too much for you, I encourage you to choose the 2-hours experience. This way you can still learn a lot about the fabrics and the design, tap into the creation process and leave the “serious” part to me while you enjoy some sight seeing in Arashiyama or further in Kyoto.
Is this activity suitable for children?
The full-day workshop is open to children of 10 and above but this can be discussed prior to the workshop. If youger children wish to join, I recommend they create one bag together with an adult. For the 2-hour experience there is no age limit and you are welcome to join even if accompanied with babies (please let me know in advance if it is the case so I can prepare the space for it).
What kind of colours do you have?
I have a selection of over twenty fabrics that I renew regularly. I try to have ‘a bit of everything’ so there is a wide choice of motifs and colours. As you can see from this website I like strong contrasted floral motifs with gold hues , but don’t worry if shiny flowers aren’t you thing! I also offer a wide choice including simpler fabrics and geometrical motifs and all-black designs. When booking, I always ask my guests if they are looking for a colour or motif in particular so I can prepare more options for them accordingly.
Do you have suitable designs for men?
Most designs, depending on the fabric choice, can look more or less masculine. You can tell me in advance if you are looking for something in particular. And, remember, you can also join the workshop to cre
Can I bring my own fabric?
Absolutely! If it’s vintage, if it was bought on one of your trip and/or if it has a significant meaning to you, I would love to use it with you in the workshop. But, please be aware that not all fabrics can be used, for various reasons, so it is not guaranteed we can use it for the final design. However, we can look at it together and discuss it on the day.
If your question doesn’t appear in the above, please contact me here and I will get back to you as soon as I can.