Sashiko Workshop

Sashiko is a Japenese style of stitching which when translated means 'little stabs'.  This running stitch was used to make clothes out of of worn-out garments.  Most sashiko is traced back to the Edo Period (1603-1867) there are earlier discoveries e.g. a monks robe fromthe 8th Century was found which was adorned with a decorative running stitch found in Sosho-in.  During the Edo period, a stric hierachy established a social order.  Commoners and working class faced limitations on the types of textiles they could use.  Sashiko was mostly used by working class farming and fishing families to make stronger more practical workwear.  Worn out pieces were stitched with layers of old cloth, producing sturdy garments, and then passed down through history.

In this workshop, sashiko techniques will be demonstrated.  You will lealrn what basic materials and tools you will need to get started with the stitching.  You will be provided with a needle threads  and fabrics.  We will explore making your own patterns or using a stencil.   We will also look at the meaning of sashiko patterns and what they represented in the Japenese culture.   

 A small sketch book will be provided to start recording your patterns and styles for future reference.

 

Sashiko thread will be available for you to purchase and is not included in the work shop price.  Threads typically used are single thread and are a little more expensive to purchase.   In the workshop I will provide DMC/Madeira thread. of course you may bring a long your own.

There will be some reference books and samples for you to look at along with other items you may like to purchase, including palm thimble/coin thimble/temu/ templates.

Take away with you the skills to produce a range of sashiko stitching and a beautiful piece produced on the day.