I find that every scrap is precious, either from the time and materials that went into creating it or due to sentimental reasons. Due to this, I started researching methods in which to reuse small scraps of fabrics. Tsumami zaiku was the perfect method to achieve this goal for me. I began researching methods and learning techniques however I was not able to find a teacher that was available to teach in the USA. It was very important to me to learn the traditional methods for creating tsumami kanzashi to both respect the handicraft and to be able to confidently help others learn about this traditional Japanese handicraft. I am truly grateful to have been able to take part in the ITA program and look forward to continuing to learn and progress in tsumami zaiku.