Sashiko
My first introduction to sashiko was the Sewing & Quilt Expo in Atlanta. I took a class with Nancy Shriber from Contemporary Sashiko. Sashiko in Japanese means ‘little stabs’, and is familiar to Westerners as a running stitch in embroidery. It is a decorative reinforcing stitch, also known as functional embroidery.
Sashiko is done with white cotton thread on indigo blue cloth. Sometimes red thread is used for a decorative piece. The stitching is used to reinforce worn places on a garment, and to repair tears with patches. Patches are applied with sashiko, making the double layer stronger and warmer. Tabi, the split socks worn with zori (thong sandals) were reinforced with sashiko, as were drawstring bags. Farmers’ and fishermen’s work clothes were reinforced at the shoulders where they would have wear from hauling. Also, since they were very poor, their clothing would require patching.
Many patterns are from Chinese designs, but sashiko is known as a Japanese craft. The artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), published a book New Forms for Design in 1824, inspiring many Japanese patterns. (from Studio Aika)
Sashiko is different from Japanese embroidery. The embroidery is done in intricate patterns with fine silken thread, in traditional motifs, on silk. Originally only for religious ceremonies, it was later used as decoration for it’s artistic value.
If you’ve never done sashiko, try it. The gentle rocking motion of your needle is very soothing and you will have a piece of Japanese art to be proud of. Just make a simple block, and turn it into a pillow, or do a panel as the center back of a jacket or a purse/tote. Check out Nancy Shriber’s site or Studio Aika for lessons and supplies.
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