Somni

Back in the old days, when fabric was scarce, the women in poorer homes would take scraps left over from making clothes or blankets and sew them together to drape over their dining tables. We’re talking, of course, about jogakbo (patchwork cloth). Although the jogakbo is rooted in harder times, it has since blossomed into a beautiful art form in its own right, mesmerizing all who encounter it. Somni, in Insadong, showcases various items derived from jogakbo that are lovingly hand-stitched by craftsmen. You can find charming little everyday accessories like decorative cellphone chains, pencil cases, and needle packets, or larger and more elegant items like drapes and tablecloths. The prices can jump from smaller items—quite affordable at 15,000 won—to works of art that cost upwards of 2,000,000 won. Although this is a shop, some of the items on sale could well qualify as masterpieces. They even hold sewing classes. If you feel up to the challenge of making beautiful artwork like a boudoir lady of old, try giving them a call!