Journal
STORIES

Dramatic
effects
with
color
and
pattern
:
In
talk
with
Yumiko
Ito,
a
food
space
producer.

In this series of interview, eterble asked space creation professionals with a variety of perspectives about how anyone can create a rich table space, ideas, and techniques. In this volume we discussed with Yumiko Ito, a food space producer who specializes on Japanese modern stylings.

ーJapanese meets the modern timesー

As an instructor at the FSPJ Table Coordination School, I give table coordination lessons to a wide range of people, from hobbyists to those who want to become professionals.

Under the theme of “enjoying good old Japanese things and in a modern way,” I am also involved in display exhibitions and styling shoots to convey the appeal of traditional Japanese food and tableware, proposing a style that incorporates trends with Japanese style.

Since my parents were in the business of handling Japanese tableware, I have been surrounded by Japanese tableware since I was a child. It is one of the most enjoyable things for me that people discover the charms of Japanese tableware, which for me is a very “usual things”, through the table coordination proposals.

 

Classic Japanese meets the modern – from one of the table stylings by Yumiko.

ーEnjoying the table set stylingsー

Tablecloths give greater impact to the table styling. With its large surface, it can create a dramatic change simply by altering the color or patterns of the cloths.

Even for those who do not use tablecloths, just add in table runners, luncheons mats, and napkins can elevate the daily scenes into something else. With the addition of these cloths, your ordinary dishes and dining tables can be made to feel special and hospitable at once. This is the fun part about table coordination.

I am not a good cook, but I believe that even such people can feel the “joy of hospitality” through table coordination that incorporates colors and patterns.

 

ーYumiko’s view on eterbleー

I am personally in fond of the brand’s color use, high in quality, and  playful spirit, while being sustainable.

The one I am most interested in is the eterble’s Patchwork Multicloth. I was attracted not only by the cuteness of the design, but also by the concept of joining the pieces together and not wasting them until the very end.

Because it is made of strips of cloth, when you look closely, you can see that each pattern is different and all are “unique,” which is another attractive point, as I myself like such things.

The size of the cloth is a little smaller than a typical full cloth, so I think it can be easily applied to a Japanese table. Also, it is very light! That is also a good thing. The material is lightweight, so I think it will be easy to dry and care for when washing. I think it is ideal for people who already owns basic tableware but wondering what to get next.

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eterble patchwork Multi cloth ¥22,000 (tax incl.)

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eterble’s multicloth can be used for leisure as well.

From 2 years ago, I am learning outdoor tea party in Japanese style, and the multicloth seems to be perfect for such use. Not only for hanging on tables indoors, but I think this is also good for those who like outdoor activities such as picnics and camping.

Loud colors and patterns spark better at outdoor.
If this cloth is quickly brought out when you are out and about, it will surely give the impression of being a stylish advanced person!

Japanese tea party in outdoor style.

 

ーWhat should we be aware when choosing the first cloth?ー

It would be good to add one large surface first. Since many people find tablecloths as something difficult to handle, my recommendation is to incorporate a table runner or luncheon mat.

If you like softer shades, choose light gray or beige.  If you like darker shades, then choosing dark gray or navy colors will be easier to use. Just adding it with seasonal flowers or placing simple white or black tableware will completely change the impression.

 

ーEasy tips for special day table stylingー

I recommend incorporate the colors to match the event.
For example, New Year’s Day will be all the more festive with red and gold items. If it is a “coming-of-age ceremony” or “Shichi-Go-San”, it is also nice to incorporate colors on the table that are linked to the colors of the kimono to be worn.

If it is difficult to use your tableware and table linens to express the colors, try incorporating it with small items such as paper napkins, message cards, and handmade chopstick bags.

 

ーSense is all about brushing upー

People tend to think that “table coordination = a natural sense of style,” but there are ways to improve your sense of style. If you like table coordination and would like to try it, please join us.

<FSPJ Table Coordinate School>
Find out more.

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Profile:

YUMIKO ITO
FSPJ certified coordinator. Instructor at FSPJ Table Coordinate School in Ginza. Takes part in flower x ceramic style shooting. Produces for corporate parties, exhibition displays, etc. Coordination of food space for corporate and commercial facilities, styling for parties and photoshoots, etc.

Instagram|@yumiko_i
at Mellia|Official website