Shopping Guide
The Japanese hashtag #セラムン工作部, Sailor Moon Handicrafts, is currently trending on Twitter. That’s because fans from all over Japan are creating goods themed after Sailor Moon and posting them to Twitter with this tag. Both fans of Sailor Moon and those who aren’t are taking a cheerful look and finding wonderful items.
Among those with the tag #セラムン工作部, one worth showcasing was tweeted in mid May. This is a tote bag remade to look like Sailor Moon’s outfit. Even among those with the tag #セラムン工作部, this tote bag has received an especially large number of retweets and favorites, as well as comments of praise from many people saying things like “This is cute!” and “What professional craftsmanship!”
We at Tokyo Otaku Mode recently talked with the creator of this tote bag, a Japanese female named Hikaru, all about her wonderful creation!
──When did you start creating such remade items as this one? And what was the catalyst?
This is the first time I’ve created a remade item. It was very recently that I started creating items themed after Sailor Moon, and this tweet was my first.
──On Twitter you commented, “I created this tote bag because I wanted to create it in this way using a compact mirror and I wanted to use the hashtag #セラムン工作部.” Please tell us the details on why you decided to create a Sailor Moon-style tote bag.
I decided to create something in a Sailor Moon style because I felt that official goods are too cute and there’s a bit of resistance to adults using them. I’ve always like sewing, so I decided to go for it after thinking that I would try making a product that I would want to use. A curiosity then sprouted of wanting to remodel an official compact mirror and use it as a bag charm.
──How long did it take to create?
In essence, about four hours. I sewed in between my other work and finished it a bit at a time, so I don’t know how long exactly.
──What was the hardest part in making this tote bag?
The design. Leaving behind a Sailor Moon taste while creating a design that could be used practically was difficult.
──What part of this tote bag are you most pleased with?
For the bottom portion I was conscious of her skirt and even included pleats. It came out cute just like I had in mind, so I’m happy with it.
This beautiful bag is even more surprising considering it was her first. Look forward to her next creation!
This is a Tokyo Otaku Mode original article.
