Sewing doesn't have to be complicated to achieve innovative results. Create sophisticated patchwork projects in the popular Japanese zakka style — the art of seeing the savvy in the ordinary — by combining linen and print fabrics using simple quilting techniques.

I Love Patchwork! offers a modern approach to this sewing technique that will appeal to beginning to intermediate sewers and quilters.

You will learn basic sewing, quilting, and patchwork techniques combined with applique and stamping to create inventive, useful projects. Learn how to buy, work with, and care for linen, plus how to choose colors for maximum effect.

Patterns range from a travel sewing kit, sewing machine cover, fabric covered box, table runner, apron, eco bag, towels, calendar, lap quilt, tote bag, mobile, pillow, pencil cases, shoulder bag, and much more.

All projects use natural linen paired with colorful patchwork; in addition to simple fabric piecing techniques, projects include many types of easy embellishments such as ribbons, buttons, stamping, applique and hand and machine embroidery.

These sophisticated projects are small enough to work up quickly using bits of fabric from the your stash, with charming design details that are easy and fun to make.

From home decor and gift items to wearable accessories and baby items, all projects require only basic sewing skills to get stylish results.

Rashida Coleman-Hale spent many years in Japan as a child and teenager. She studied fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology, sells her designs on Etsy.com, and has contributed to Stitch magazine. She lives in New York