Sashiko: Traditional Japanese Stitching

Sashiko is the Japanese traditional art of functional embroidery. It is often considered to be a form of quilting. Originally, Sashiko was a method of making mending functionally beautiful. Today Sashiko is used as a decorative embroidery and quilting technique which can incorporate traditional and contemporary motifs. The traditional white thread on indigo fabric has also expanded to include many different colors of thread and types of fabric. Stonemountain & Daughter has always supported our local Sashiko stitchers with the best thread, traditional fabrics, books, kits, and classes that we can find. We are excited to be able to offer these products through our online shop! View our selection of Sashiko embroidery supplies, samplers, kits, and transfer patterns, and place your order today! Because our stock of Sashiko fabric yardage can come and go so quickly, we encourage you to browse these examples and call us to order by phone. To learn Sashiko basic techniques and history, we recommend Carrie Besso's popular Nouveau Sashiko class, held here at Stonemountain & Daughter December 20th, 2010.

	Traditional Sashiko stitching consists of a type of regularly spaced running stitch. It is traditional to use white or cream colored thick Sashiko thread on indigo-dyed blue fabric. This sampler shown at left represents a two traditional interlocking motifs on a lighter indigo blue fabric.
	This traditional sashiko example features traditional Japanese interlocking circles on a darker traditional indigo fabric.
	These three pieces of special Sashiko fabric are printed with a pattern to stitch over. Once the stitching is done, the special ink can be washed away, leaving only the Sashiko stitching. These fabrics are hard to find - buy them while we have them in stock! They are imported direct from Japan. Widths vary from 36 to 40 inches. 100% cotton with wash-away ink. Prices range from $ 16 to $ 23 per yard.
	Our current stock of Japanese sashiko thread comes in a staggering array of colors. Use this bulky thread as a single ply - do not split as you would DMC embroidery floss! Many solid colors and a few ombres/paints available. $ 3.05 to $ 3.55 per package.
	We stock many Sashiko books in English and a few smaller titles that are in Japanese. Japanese books feature detailed pictures and metric numeric measurements that are generally easy to follow. Featured at left: "Japanese Sashiko Inspirations" ($ 24.99). Featured at right: "Sensational Sashiko" ($ 27.95). Both books give you plenty of patterns, how-to diagrams, color combinations and suggested uses for this addictive craft!