Introduction to Japanese Sashiko Stitching

Sashiko Stitchery had its roots in 17th-century Japan, when working-class people lived under harsh conditions with limited resources. Cotton was difficult to come by, so they stitched on it first to make the fabric more durable. When it tore, they would embroider over it with recycled material to give it new life. Born centuries ago out of necessity, Sashiko is now a popular fashion trend. But for the sashiko garment maker Atsushi Fatatsuya, it is much more than that. It’s an expression of his rich Japanese cultural history. From a family of Sashiko practitioners, he considers this practice as part of his fate.

After having commissioned garments for clothing stores and private clients, Atsushi teaches you Sashiko beyond the fashion trend. In this online course, take a deep dive into the history of those stitches, discover their deep cultural significance, and learn how to apply them to your favorite pieces.

Born into a family who made a living practicing Sashiko – Atsushi Fatatsuya’s relationship with those stitches is lifelong. He takes you through the history and philosophy of Sashiko stitchery and his relationship with it while teaching you how to tackle this technique yourself.

Explore Boro, commonly known as colorful patchwork, and get started on the pattern. Atsushi also explains how to prepare your fabric and methods of keeping the thread in good shape while working.

It’s time to stitch your final project! Atsushi shows you different styles and how to find the right size for your piece. Learn how to make knots and how you can stay true to the essence of Sashiko by focusing on the process rather than the result.

Next, incorporate Sashiko when mending garments, and look at the practice as a mindset, not just a technique. Atsushi guides you through preparing larger projects and how to keep exploring this method as a form of cultural sustainability.

By the end of this course, you will have a deeper understanding of Sashiko and the ability to stitch, patch, and mend with it.

Enrich one of your own garments by applying Sashiko stitching.

Anyone interested in Sashiko stitching, at any level.

Atsushi recommends purchasing the Special Supply Package, but it’s not required. You will need thread, a Sashiko needle and thimble, and existing fabric.