Sashiko is a traditional style of Japanese stitching. Its origins are functional. Stitches were used to reinforce areas of high wear, to mend worn areas or holes, to piece worn out clothes together to create a new garment, and to layer fabrics together. 

Sashiko needles are fairly long, since sashiko uses running stitch. You “build” the stitches on the needle before pushing the needle through. Sashiko thread is a little different from embroidery thread as well. It is not separable! While you can use regular embroidery needles and embroidery thread (which will look different), we have everything you need in store and online! (Also, embroidery thread does sometimes separate when sewing, which can cause frustration when one strand sticks up and becomes shorter than the others! argh!).

Among North American sewists, sashiko is often spoken of as part of the visible mending movement. Visible mending has become popular in the past 4-5 years as we have been paying more attention to fast fashion. With visible mending, we embrace the “flaw” and turn it into a feature, once repaired. By doing this we keep a garment circulating longer, keeping it out of the landfill and in our closet. This is an excellent way to extend the life of your handmade garments (and quilts!) too. Handmade garments take a lot of time to make and it can be very disappointing when they become worn or torn. 

We have some authentic sashiko threads from Japan but if you want to extend your options, our selection of Valdani threads are perfect! Modern sashiko is not just about mending, it is also an art! 

We have tried to think of everything you need to embark on a sashiko adventure. In addition to kits which include a printed pattern cloth, needle, and thread, we have printed samplers, needles, threads and ring thimbles from Daruma, Tulip, and Little House! With sashiko, a thimble is helpful to push the many stitches through the needle and with mending, you may need to go through a thick fabric like denim! 

I really like the variegated thread for sashiko-style mending. So much so I have actually started to make a dent in my mending pile! My family is so thankful! What's in your mending pile? Are you ready to get started with our fabulous threads? Our pointy needles? I'm looking forward to practicing my stitches with a dish cloth kit! I am sure, with practice, my free-hand stitches will become much more even!