Make Me Happi Project
Photo credit - Koki Atcheson
“MAKE ME HAPPI” Project - 2021
During the pandemic, several BWA members had sewn masks using donated fabrics and labor. As mask needs shifted, Sharon Yokoyama, Penny Kumagai Atcheson and Koki Atcheson discussed using the donated fabrics and encouraging continued sewing participation. Sharon shared her previous efforts making children’s happi coats with Koki and Penny. From there participation of both sewers and non-sewers were invited. Documenting processes, sharing the progress and organizing the protocol with many varied skill sets were completed by countless volunteer efforts. Koki Atcheson named the project, “Make me Happi.” At that point, the project was born and has grown!
The details continue to evolve, including the historical relationship to previous sewing ladies, best use of the donations stored in the temple and mottainai efforts reflecting BWA Buddhist values.
Along with the happi coats, Arlene Matsubara designed one-of-a-kind tote bags constructed from Obon towels donated by Charlotte Miyamoto and contributed fabric strips. Stories, ideas and photographs involved various members in all stages. A sale of these items was staged for Obon season, summer of 2021. These project efforts are documented throughout the website. Please browse to find out more and see the joy in the Make Me Happi project.
Here is a brief behind-the-scenes video of the Make Me Happi project.
