I hope everyone has had as fantastic festivities as I have, here in Australia with my sis and her family.

I won’t bore you with the list of presents I received, but amongst my favourites were these gorgeous sewing accessories:

They made me think about new sewing projects when I get home.

I used to do a lot of embroidery at one time. But nothing I ever produced came within squinting distance of the wonders produced by Japanese embroidery artist Yumiko Higuchi.

I only recently discovered her work via her blog, from which these pictures were taken.

Just look at the detail in those designs! I know from experience only too well how many tiny stitches are involved.

So beautiful!

You can see more of Yumiko’s work here and follow her on facebook or twitter, or browse her shop here.