Sashiko, which means “little stabs” in Japanese, is a captivating form of embroidery where you use running stitches to create threaded patterns on fabric. While it can be used for designing beautiful pieces of clothing and adding decorative patterns, its main purpose is for mending. Instead of throwing away torn clothing or concealing it, sashiko allows you to visibly mend it, enhancing its look by highlighting rips, tears, fray, fringes, and jagged edges.
The most common motifs in sashiko embroidery are floral, abstract, and environmental, often depicting oceans, trees, and birds.
Sashiko not only strengthens clothing but also makes it more durable, warmer, and stylish. This art form is especially striking on denim, cotton, and wool fabrics. Many quilt makers use machinery to stitch sashiko patterns onto blankets, increasing the sustainability of garments. By mastering sashiko, you can transform ripped clothes into unique items rather than discarding them. The range of beautiful patterns you can create is endless.
According to fashion designer and style teacher Jessica Marquez, sashiko is not just an embroidery technique but a form of self-expression that challenges fast fashion and consumerism.
What you need and how it’s done
Sashiko can be done by hand or with a sewing machine. When using a machine, manual control of speed is essential for precision. Adjust the needle spacing to make the stitches more visible.
For hand-stitching, you’ll need a sashiko needle, thread, and thimble, along with standard sewing tools such as scissors, drawing pad, tailor’s chalk, and pins.
What to do:
Sashiko involves the running stitch, where you simply poke the needle down and back up through the fabric. Load multiple stitches onto the needle to save time. Use tailor’s chalk to transfer your pattern onto the material before stitching.
Ensure tight stitches and follow your pattern precisely. Creating sashiko patterns is a relaxing and rewarding activity, offering endless possibilities for creativity.
Explore exciting sashiko patterns like those featured on The Spruce Crafts:
Sources
- Cheryl Fall. Sashiko Patterns, Projects, and Resources. The Spruce Crafts. https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/sashiko-patterns-projects-and-information-1177510. Retrieved 25-02-2020
- Meghan Racklin. Instead of hiding rips and tears, the visible mending movement turns them into art. Vox. https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2019/3/25/18274743/visible-mending-sashiko-mending-fast-fashion-movement. Retrieved 25-02-2020
