Stitching while Strolling by Kenji Oikawa and Mayuko Takeuchi

A charming illustrated children's book about a kindhearted craftsman, a curious dog, and the wonderful things that happen when creativity meets kindness.

Created in collaboration with Hermès, the storied French luxury house founded in 1837 as a maker of fine saddles and leather goods, Stitching while Strolling celebrates the skill and imagination of traditional craftspeople.

The story follows a dog who visits a saddlery workshop in search of a new collar. The craftsman initially turns him away, explaining that he makes saddles and leather goods for horses, not dogs. But he soon changes his mind, and one small act of kindness leads to an unexpected adventure.

As the dog takes his new friend for a walk through town, they encounter an assortment of animals with unusual requests. A squirrel needs a satchel, a kangaroo wants pockets for her little ones, a lion asks for stripes to help him cross the road safely, and an elephant needs a hat to keep off the sun. There's even a penguin looking for a scarf!

Before long, the craftsman's workshop is bustling with new customers, each bringing a different challenge for his imagination and skills.

About the authors and illustrators

Kenji Oikawa and Mayuko Takeuchi are the Japanese creative duo known as 100%ORANGE. Together, they create illustrations, picture books, manga, and animation. Their distinctive artwork has earned recognition in Japan, including the Grand Prize at the 13th Japanese Picture Book Awards.

The inspiration for Stitching while Strolling came from their visits to Hermès workshops in France, where Oikawa observed leather artisans in Paris and silk scarf makers in Lyon. Fascinated by the craftspeople, their specialized tools, and the atmosphere of the workshops, he wanted to create a story celebrating the skill and imagination of people who make things by hand.

With its playful illustrations and celebration of craftsmanship, generosity, and creative problem-solving, Stitching while Strolling is a delightful book for young readers—and for grown-ups who appreciate the art of making.

Book Details

• Hardcover

• Publication date: April 7, 2026

• Pages: 32

• Language: English

• Recommended age: 4 years and up

Dimensions: 8" × 10"