Category: Upcycle

Sashiko Zoom Lecture

Sashiko Zoom Lecture | to communicate about Sashiko

atsushijp Leave a comment

It has been a great fun to share the Sashiko we practice on Youtube in form of “Sashiko Live Streaming”. The purpose of this Sashiko Live Streaming is to offer a real view of unedited Sashiko Stitching. I understand the great need for me to talk in English in the Live Streaming. However, since English is my second language, I often end up with talking in Japanese especially when I do not have a specific topic to talk about. As much as I will do my best to prepare the English Sashiko Live streamig, I would like to try other methods to deliver the similar message. One idea I came up with is the “Sashiko Zoom Lecture“

What is Sashiko Zoom Lecture?

First, please understand that Sashiko Zoom Lecture is not a workshop or a class that I teach some Sashiko techniques. If you are interested in learning the Sashiko technique and posture, please consider taking the Sashiko Online Class. I am confident that the learning in Online Sashiko Class will enrich the experience in Sashiko Zoom Lecture.

Second, please be advised that this is not “Sashiko Gathering” that I occasionally offer. In “Sashiko Gathering”, anyone can speak up anything about Sashiko in a Zoom Meeting. I do not record the gathering, and I do not insist the copyright of any contents. I do not control who talks about what. I even leave the meeting with asking someone to be in charge from time to time. Sashiko Gathering is more like a “friend gathering”, and therefore, as of 2020, I only invite people who I know from Sashiko Workshop & Online Sashiko Class.

The Sashiko Zoom Lecture is an opportunity for me to answer your questions over a Zoom meeting. In the Youtube Sashiko Live Streaming, I just would read out the comments and offer the answers to the question as I talk & stitch. Since I often receive the same question, I end up with talking the same thing. There is nothing wrong with repeating the same answers (and I probably should do so to increase the subscribers), but I would prefer to talk about something new everytime I am doing. Sashiko Zoom Lecture enable me to choose the question first, and then I can have a conversation partner who has a question about.

I will invite those who wish to join the Sashiko Zoom Lecture with mute on. When you have a question about Sashiko, you may share it via “DM/Comment” on Zoom Platform. When I confirm the question is not so repetitive, I will ask the person to be my conversation partner for the question. You do not have to bring any questions, but please agree with the rules & guideline of Sashiko Zoom Lecture below

Guideline for the Sashiko Zoom Lecture

  • The whole lecture will be recorded. We shall obtain all of the copyright, and will upload the video to Youtube as an archive. The participants agree to allow me to upload the video which may contain the visual and/or audio contents. Although it is okay to not to share the image (joining with no videos), it is the participant’s responsibility to control the On/Off of the video.
  • The purpose of this Lecture/Discussion is to have a good discussion about Sashiko in English. A good question will be very much appreciated to enrich the discussion.
  • Please keep the microphone muted until I direct to unmute. When you are invited to the discussion, please engage in the discussion. It will be our dialogue. (It is more like a remote school that many children are experiencing now under Covid-19.)
  • This is a trial and free of charge to join. There is a capacity of 100 participants at once. 
  • This is not a workshop or class to teach techniques of Sashiko. So, I will probably not answer the question about “How to”. Please consider taking the Online Class for the specific techniques.
  • Please be advised that I may not answer the questions regarding the techniques and patterns to be fair with the participants of Online Sashiko Class / In-person Sashiko workshops. A question about Sashiko history & mindset would be very much appreciated. (The summary of many questions I have received so far is available on Patreon.)
  • I welcome a question. However, please do not “challenge” me. Upcycle Stitches LLC will have the right to remove a participant from the meeting.
  • All the questions & comments has to be somewhat related to Sashiko and/or Boro.

(Update: December, 2020)

How to proceed it

  • Please fill out the Google form to register the Sashiko Zoom Lecture after reading & agreeing the guildline above.
  • Please expect an email from Atsushi for the Link to join the Sashiko Zoom Lecture. As of now, the dates are very irregular. If meetings go well, I try to make it more periodical.
  • Once you join the Zoom meeeting, please make sure that your microphone is muted.
  • Please comment on the Zoom Meeting for your question. When I find a question non-repetitive, I will invite you to a discussion about Sashiko. (When you do not have any questions, you may just enjoy watching us talk.)
  • I will direct you to unmute the microphone. I will answer your question as if I have you as my conversation partner.
  • Once the question is answered & no more questions are appeared, I will move on to the next question.

Registration for the Sashiko Zoom Lecture

sashiko Zoom Lecture Registration

In order to secure the privacy of the Lecture, I will NOT share the zoom link (meeting ID) in public. If you are interested in joining, please fill out the form (Please edit your answers if you have filled out before for Online Sashiko Gathering). I will send out the email with link when we are ready.

Why Do I offer the Sashiko Live Streaming

I have reasons why I offer the Sashiko Live Streaming on top of everything.

“I want you to learn the Sashiko as the Japanese would have learned” is one of the reasons here. Many Japanese crafts were(are) passed down in learning by just looking. There is no caricurum. There is no textbook. The apprentice observe what the master does, and then learn by themselves without specific teaching. In fact, that’s how I learned the Sashiko I am teaching today. I am just summarizing my decades into 3 hours.

Anyone can learn Sashiko as they wish. For me, sharing the Live Streaming in which no one can “edit” and “hide” is the best thing I can contribute to the Sashiko we would like to pass down.

Please watch the Sashiko Live Streaming. There may be something you can learn even if I only talk in Japanese. Then, please join this new adventure, Sashiko Zoom Lecture, where I may be a bit more precise help to you.

Sashiko Supply Recommendation

A list of Sashiko Supply Recommendation

atsushijp Leave a comment

Sashiko is simple form of hand-stitching developed in Japan. I believe anyone can learn it and practice it with great joy. Your Sashiko teacher/books may say that you can use any kind of needles, threads and fabric for Sashiko because it was developed as a practice to strengthen & repair the fabric. It is a true statement that the Japanese had to use whatever they had in the beginning of Sashiko history. However, we have choices in today’s society. There are many Japanese artisans/craftmen who devoted their life to make better materials, equipment, and supplies.

We spend a lot of time in stitching when we enjoy Sashiko. One project can take hundreds hours of stitching. I would like you to be rewarded to the time you spent. I would like to have the best possible result to the time I have spent. 

Therefore, I have a strong recommendation in what we use & introduce. For the Online Sashiko Class, I make them as the necessary tools and supplies so that I can smoothly pass down the techniques & wisdom we carry.  This blog explain what is the list of Sashiko Supply Recommendation for the Japanese Sashiko artisans.

*I understand that not everyone is accessible to the supplies & tools I introduce here. Please do not get me wrong. I am NOT saying that what you use will define it if you are doing Sashiko or not. As I said above, as a Sashiko’s principal, you may use whatever you have. However, I want you to know that there are “the best” items for the Sashiko we practice. 

Sashiko Supply Recommendation (Must Have)

These supplies and tools are must to have to enjoy our Sashiko. Some teachers/books may say that they are optional to have. However, since you are trying to enjoy the Sashiko, I strongly recommend you to get these items. They make a significant difference in both stitching experience & results.

*Please be advised that all of the necessary supply & tools here is included in the Online Sashiko Class (and In-person workshop) fees.

I strongly recommend taking our Sashiko Workshop/Class (either In-person or Online) to learn how to use the supplies and tools appropriately. Alternatively, I offer a lot of materials for anyone to learn by watching on our Youtube Channel.

Optional Sashiko Supply Recommendation

Here is a list of other Sashiko supply recommendation. You wouldn’t need them for the first steps. However, the more you get into the Sashiko practice, these tools may be very beneficial for you to keep enjoying.

Sashiko Thread (for Future Projects)

Sashiko Thread is consumable articles. The more you stitch, the more you would like to have. It is alway good to have plenty of Sashiko threads. We have a variety of colors in Mono/Variegated synthetic and Natural Dye. As I always say, the thread matters. The good Sashiko thread makes a significant difference. 

*As of now, we recommend the Sashiko thread from 2 brands/manufactures mainly. I would like to introduce the thread I use. It is not ethical for us to introduce something we do not prefer / we do not use. Please check our store for the availability of our thread.

*The [Best Sashiko Thread] is the one I provide in the Workshop Supply Package.

Check The Best Sashiko Thread (Colored & Natural)
Check Yokota Sashiko Thread (as good as above)

Please check this article to Compare the Sashiko Thread we recommend

Fabric for Sashiko

To be honest, the fabric can be anything you would like to stitch on. My favorite is the cotton fabric woven in Japan. Because of the several factors, I feel a difference when I stitch on the cotton fabric woven in other countries. I want you to learn how to talk to the fabric by learning the Sashiko/Unshin from us so that you can find what is the best fabric for you.

Other Sashiko Supply Recommendation

Any Recommendation for books?

Unfortunately, I do NOT have any recommendation for book published in English. I have several recommendation for book written in Japanese. Some of them are out of print, but we are happy to look for one for you (with Fee). The books Ms. Eiko Yoshida wrote our recommendation (All in Japanese). For the pattern, I have a book that I like in English. It is easier for us to find this book.

[Update in 2023]

Finally, I have a course that I sincerely recommend to start learning Sashiko as introduction – without asking you the big commitment (I understand my [Core & Essence] class require some commitment. I get so many good reviews, but I understand it isn’t for everyone).

Please find the course: Introduction to Japanese Sashiko on Domestika. This is the answer to you for asking my recommendation.

Enroll The Course Now

If you aren’t sure, please check the trailer to see what you can learn in the Course! This is well filmed by professionals! It will be a great start, and I hope you can consider taking my official course, Core & Essnece. Thank you!

For the cultural perspective of Sashiko, I keep writing and speaking because there are no good books for you to understand Sashiko with the details. It is key to understand that we cannot understand fully because Sashiko existed in the ordinary (therefore, I do not recommend any books marketing them with saying “No Look Further” or “Ultimate”).

For the Technique of Sashiko, most of the books written in English teach the “filtered” answers. They are not wrong, but insufficient. The “easy-answer” may discourage you to keep learning by “feeling” that you learned the whole picture (by reading filtered information by non-Japanese teachers). It will twist the culture from the technical perspective as well. Please try to learn from the Japanese teachers, or the teachers who are very well educated in Japanese culture (fluent in Japanese).

For the pattern references, the book that I like in English is a good source to come back and learn. It is easier for us to find this book.

To learn the Sashiko we practice by reading/listening the stories, this is a list of links you can learn (Your Support on Patreon would be appreciated).

  • Patreon – I share my honest & sincere stories here.
  • Instagram – I update everyday. I behave in what I write after experiencing some sad “argument”.
  • Youtube – Not my comfort zone, but I try my best.
  • This website – Many random articles, but this is the origin of everything.
  • Facebook Group – Open to anyone who would like to respect the Japanese Sashiko.

*You can find the similar information on Sashiko Q&A

Sashiko Frequently Asked Questions

Not only for the industry, but for you to enjoy Sashiko.

In Japan, we have a proverb saying, “A true master isn’t picky about the tools they use.” In other words, in English, you may say “A bad craftsman blames his tools”. It is also a true statement that a “master” will be able to stitch naturally with any tools. However, we aren’t the “master” yet.

In order to have a comfortable learning process, I strongly recommend getting the right tools. It makes a big difference, and therefore I require every students who learn via my class/workshop to use the specific tools. It is very important to advocate those small industry to pass the culture down to the next generation. However, on top of that, I want you to enjoy the Sashiko as much as you can possibly do. Therefore, we introduce what we use every day to enjoy Sashiko.

So… if you find your Sashiko stitching is somewhat difference from the one we stitch, it may be because of the tools/supplies you use. To expedite the learning, please consider taking the Online Sashiko Class.

Sample of Sashiko stitching

Here are the samples of Sashiko stitching done by Atsushi, Keiko, and our students & friends. If you find your stitching different from these, and wish to make your stitching like these, please consider trusting the Sashiko Supply Recommendation.

Asanoha Sashiko Pillow

Asanoha Sashiko Pillow | Sustainable Sashiko Project

atsushijp Leave a comment

My goal is to share the Sashiko that the Japanese have been practicing. This website, Upcycle Stitches, exist to achive the goal. In addition to this goal of “sharing Sashiko”, I have been dreaming to make Sashiko somewhat “Sustainable” to the future. It is not difficult to enjoy Sashiko today. I would like to keep it that way (easy to enjoy) in next 100 years, and possibly more. This is Asanoha Sashiko Pillow, as a first step to make it happen.

*This blog is an edit of original article here.

CHECK THE PRODUCT FIRST

The Craftmanship as Profession

Sashiko have obtained its popularity as a hobby in Japan as well as in many other coutries. I am happy to see many people enjoying Sashiko as they wish. However, In order to keep the Sashiko practice as a sustainable culture, we would need to think about the foundation of its practice. The mutual understanding of the Sashiko value may be another important concept to consider.

The Mutual Understanding? Sustainable as a culture?

I do not mean to scare people out.

Simply speaking, we would need to advocate the value of Sashiko as a craft “all done by hands” in addition to a fun stitching activity. We would need to keep the “money” circulate so that we can support everyone who contribute to the Sashiko society such as thread manufactures, fabric mills, and Sashiko stitchers/artisans who spends so much time in this practice.

Anyone can enjoy Sashiko as a hobby. However, when the sustainablity in the long term becomes the topic of discussion, “supporting the rising artisan” become quite important priority. I believe the same thing happens in any other crafting culture anywhere in the world.

I have been teaching Sashiko in both English and Japanese since 2017 based on my 30 years of experience. Within Japan, we have completed several projects such as “Unshin Jacket” and “26 of Asanoha Sashiko”. While enjoying our students’ Sashiko, we occasionally offer “commisison work” for them to do Sashiko for us.

*Left Unshin Jacket. Right Asanoha Sashiko. The article in English for both projects are coming soon.

It is my goal to sustain this commission work as continuous project with wider acceptance so that we can offer more opportunities to rising artisans. I would like to keep offering a commission work so that they can shift their Sashiko from a hobby to craft, then artisanship.

I believe, this is how we can contribute to the Sustainable Sashiko.

Made by practitioners with high quality.

We ask our “friends (graduates of Atsushi’s workshop in Japanese)” to perform Sashiko stitching on the Japanese fabric we provided to them. They complete our request of Sashiko Stitching, and we pay a commission to them. Sashi.Co and Keiko Futatsuya will make a “finished item” with keeping the quality high, both Sashiko & construction of the product.

Although we ask a job to the “rising” artisans, we will gurantee the best possible high quality in its capability. The product is hand-stitched by a practitioner of Sashiko with strict supervision of Sashi.Co. We will do our best to offer the high quality products with various character of Sashiko stitching.

*There is no such as thing as “Right” and “Wrong” in Sashiko. Therefore, I believe, there is no such a thing as “Good” or “Bad” Sashiko – there is only a preference. Many people prefer the even stitches, and we value the evenness the most as the “skillful” item. In order to be skillful, a practitioner needs to stitch more. In order to stitch more, a commission work will be a great support for them to keep stitching. This Sashiko Cushion is my challenge to make a foundation of sustainable Sashiko.

Asanoha Sashiko Pillow

We made a Sashiko Pillow Cover with Asanoha pattern, Asanoha Sashiko Pillow, all hand- stitching on. Again, the Sashiko stitches are not done by the member of Sashi.Co or Upcycle Stitches. However, as you can see, the stitches are as even & beautiful as ours. We are so proud of the rising Sashiko artisans, and sincerely happy to be able to offer their work.

We have very limited amount of items in stock as of 2020. Hopefullly, we can keep offering the work to our artisans. Then, we will have more of the items coming along.

For more photos, please visit the product page.

Product Information:

  • Size: 46cm x 46cm (About 18 inch x 18 inch)
    • *A square pillow is NOT included in the price.
  • Front fabric: Cotton Fabric (Japanese Woven).
  • Back fabric: Indigo Cotton Fabric (Japanese Woven)
  • Hand Stitched by a Japanese Sashiko (to-be) Artisan with strict supervision by Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya. Constructed by skilled artisans.

By purchasing this product, you are directly supporting the rising (to be) artisans in Japan. I sincerely appreciate you on behalf of more than 10 people who are part of this journey.

Sashiko is all done by hands. Therefore, the production line can be very flexible to accomodate your preference & need. We are happy to accept the bulk order to come up with lower price. Since all of the process is done by hands, we can accomodate your needs from choosing the fabric to sizing of pillow case.

Your choice will support the future of Sashiko

I sincerely appreciate your support in our Sashiko stitching. In today’s society, a person can get a pillow cover with similar “design” with much less money. Some sell the pillow with “Asano-ha” pattern printed as Sashiko Pillow. Others may call their machine stitched Sashiko as the “authentic (traditional) Sashiko”.

Unfortunately, there is not many things we can do to “regain” the value of Sashiko since they are once already in the trend. Only one strategy I can take to redefine the value of Sashiko is to “share” and “ask to be mindful”. I cannot change someone’s mind. If a person wants to call a mere geometric pattern (without even stitching) Sashiko, I have no power to stop it. It is the beauty of freedom. After all, we can do what we want to do.

Therefore, your caring support & choice will make the future of Sashiko. I hope that the “Sashiko in the future” is something respecting the Japanese culture & many stories that the Japanese had accumurated over years.

We are here to do Sashiko. I am here to share the stories of Sashiko. We appreciate your time to try to understand us, and support our activities.

Atsushi Futatsuya

How to Avoid Tangling Sashiko Thread

How to avoid Tangling Sashiko Thread

atsushijp Leave a comment

The “Sashiko Thread (we recommend)” is specifically designed for the Sashiko stitching. Therefore, a skein of thread may get tangled when the thread is not well-handled. It is not difficult to keep the Sashiko thread in a good shape. Here are several ways to avoid an unfortunate accident: Tangling Sashiko Thread.

In 2020, I made a video of one of the easiest way to keep the Sashiko Thread in a good shape. This is a follow-up article for the video with the transcription.

Avoid Tangling Sashiko Thread

Script of the video of Avoid Tangling Sashiko Thread

As always, instead of adding caption on the video, I share the script of the video’s contents. As soon as I get resources/funds to add the caption, I will work on it. Until that, the script will be helpful for some of you.

Hello.

Thank you for watching our videos to learn what Sashiko is for us. One of frequent questions I receive is how to keep the thread in a good condition. Well, more francky speaking, it is about how to avoid an unfortunate accident – which is getting the thread tangled. I hope this video will help you to prevent the sad experience. 

 

You would need, Good Sashiko thread that we recommend, scissors, and scotch tape. This is more like a “quick solution”. To learn other ways to keep the thread in a good condition, please check other 2 videos talking about making the thread bobbins & thread cards. The link is listed on the description.




Let’s talk about Sashiko Thread here again.

 

I recommend mainly these Sashiko threads. I use the thread on the left, the large skein one, for most of my Sashiko projects. We have many colors both synthetic dye and natural dye. 

 

I started using the thread on the right side, the small skein, to answer some requests from audiences who wish to use the thinner threads. After using them for a year or so, and repeating tries and errors, we are happy to recommend this thinner thread as well.

 

All of the Sashiko threads we have on our website, upcyclestitches.com are good for Sashiko stitching. 

 

One of the characterics of Good Sashiko thread for Sashiko Stitching means the threads have very unique twists. As I have been introducing the difference between Sashiko thread & other types of threads, there are reasons we call it “Sashiko thread”. Thread does make a difference, thread does matter.

 

If you are wondering why your stitches do not look like ours, the thread may be the quick remedy for your question.

 

Please also check another video about “what is the difference between Sashiko thread and other thread”. The link is on the description as well.



Because of the unique twist, the thread is, unfortunately, very easy to get tangled. The  threads are packaged as one-continuous threads, either 145 meter or 40 meters. Therefore, when we try to pull the thread without any preparation, it will most likely be a tangled thread ball. The tangled thread ball is still usable for Sashiko stitching. However, it will be a lot more troublesome. 

 

So, Let’s jump to the main topic today. Here is a quick & easy solution for that.



First, un-skein the thread to one big loop. //This is how we receive the thread from the thread manufacturer (before making them as a skein).// The one-continuous thread is rounded and stopped by the small loop. 

 

(Instead of cutting this small thread stopper off and starting to use and get tangled). You may ignore the small loop thread stopper and cut the thread at any point of the loop as the video shows. It is like a one loop of thread to one bunch of threads. After you cut the thread once, please tape the both ends so that threads will not separate by themselves. 

 

After securing the both ends of threads, you may pull one thread out from the bunch of threads. Pulling the thread shouldn’t be difficult at all, and the other bunch of threads will not be tangled at all because of the secured edges with scotch tape. 

 

After you pull the one thread, you may use a paper bobbin to keep the threads in a good shape. (The paper bobbin can be anything – a piece of cardboard is perfectly fine. Not necessary but recommended). 




By the way, this is not related to the main topic of how to avoid an unfortunate accident of tangled thread, I will introduce how the skein is made out of the thread loop. It may not be something new or unique for those who are familiar with thread. However, it is good to share as much information as possible in order to pass down the culture, I believe.



When we dye the Sashiko thread, we cannot dye the thread in a form of skein.We dye thread with the thread in a form of big loop, which is the same form right before the cutting that I introduced in this video.



After thread dyeing is completed, we manually make a skein as the video shows. Dyeing is manually done by hands. Making skeins is manually done by hands. Packaging them is also manually done by hands. It would be appreciated if you could understand the subtle difference of each item. 



There are many reasons why we do not automate the process, but one significant reason is that we would like to care what we make. We would like to know what we are offering.





Let me share a fable, short story.

 

A company made a goal to make 10,000 items, and sell it to 10,000 customers. In order to get 100% satisfaction from a customer, the company decided to make 10,010 items with a 0.1% defect rate. The number is the logic. If there is a 0.1% of defect rate, we have to prepare to replace it. 

 

This is a very true statement in terms of productivity.

 

However, a Japanese company decided to make the defect rate to 0% – although it certainly is inefficient to do so. They decided to make 10,000 items with no defective items – and the productivity would go down because of this goal.

 

The point here is not the power of statistics. 

If you are interested, please pause the video here and try to think why the Japanese came up with the inefficient goal.



The Japanese company thought like this.

Yes, the deficient rate is only 0.1%. 10 items over 10,000 items are not that significant. However, for a customer, 1 defective item is 100% defective. It is our identity to deliver the 100% product to the 100% customers. 

 

I feel the same way.

Therefore, we try to do everything manually with care as much as possible.



Alright. Let’s come back to the main topic.

As you have been watching, the same process of cutting one place of thread loop, goes to the bigger skein as well. The same process. The same idea.

 

Some may want to cut the threads with the desirable length for each Sashiko project. This may not be the ideal solution for those who wish to have specific length in the Sashiko stitching. Also, when we take care of the variegated color thread, this may not be the ideal solution (because, sometimes, we want to have the continuous colors as variegated.)

 

If you wish to not to cut the thread as I shared in this video, please check the other 2 videos of how to make thread bobbins & thread balls.



I understand that some of us do not want to tape the edge. 

In that case, we can brade the threads. I am not very good at brading the thread, but here we go.

 

In braiding, we need to cut the small loop off. It can be before or after cutting the thread’s big loop. The small loop can be a part of the main 145 meter continuous thread. So make sure to cut it off.

 

Then, fold the thread into half, and hang it on the wall or s-shape hanger. 

 

After that, you may know better. The same way to make a brading with long hair. After completion of the brade, you may pull 1 thread from the top of the braided thread. 

 

Here I show the exact same process with another same Sashiko thread, just a different color, pink. I find it difficult to explain it in words. I hope the video of me actually doing is a helpful resource.

 

For the idea of brading, It may be a good idea to braid several colors of Sashiko thread together.

Let’s look at it again for the last time. Cut the small loop of the thread off. Then, cut one point of threads to make a bunch of threads. Instead of taping the edges, fold the threads into half and hang it somewhere. I hereby combined the white & pink thread together.

 

After this, it is the matter of practicing the brading. 



Alright. 

This is the end of the video.

I hope this video will help you to avoid the sad and unfortunate accident. It is always good to have a bunch of Sashiko threads ready for your stitching. 

 

We also have some “thread cards” pre-prepared. 

For more information about the products we offer, please visit upcyclestitches.com

 

(The script ends here for How to Avoid Tangling Sashiko Thread)

Other methods to avoid tangling Sashiko Thread

For more information, please visit our Youtube Channel.

Unshin Sashiko Stitching

4 Reasons of Learning Unshin Sashiko Stitching

atsushijp Leave a comment

There is no such a thing as Right or Wrong in Sashiko. However, it doesn’t mean there is no “form” or “standard” in Sashiko stitching. There are many reasons why I am so passionate about sharing the Sashiko as a process. I made a video explaining why learning Unshin Sashiko Stitching is so important to fully enjoy the Sashiko we would like to share.

Many ask me, “How can I make stitches so even like you?” There is a precise answer to that “Don’t try to make it even”. The video explain how to make the stitches weven without “trying” it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaSU6dFLnPM&t=4s

Unshin Sashiko Stitching

Sashiko became popular by following the pattern pre-printed fabric with the specific stitches sizes pre-determined. Many teachers tells the students which rules they need to follow. For example, a teacher may say that the center of Asano-ha needs to be adjusted. Another teacher may tell you to accumurate stitches on the needle. Their lesson is not “wrong”. However, there are other forms of Sashiko which tells completely different things. So, my insight here is that “they are not wrong, but insufficient”.

Among these difference, there is one common standards that many teachers teach how important it is. It is called “Unshin (運針）”, and it is the word for the needle movement. The video above introduce why it is important to learn the Unshin Sashiko stitching.

Transcript of Unshin Sashiko Stitching Video

As much as I would like to incert captions on the video so that anyone can enjoy the video & learn about the importance of Unshin Sashiko Stitching, I do not have time, skill, and funds to make it happen yet. Instead, I share the full transcript here so you can read & watch together.

Hello, this is Atsushi from Sashi.Co

I believe many people would like to know how to make even stitches in Sashiko. To answer the question, I have a kind of proverb that I always tell my friends in my workshops.

I use an example of “slicing the onion” to explain what “the rhythmical stitching” is like. I hope the series of my video will give you a hint to grasp this proverb. Online Sashiko Class is also available for you.

In this video, I would like to explain why stitching on the fabric with certain sized stitches lines pre printed is not my preference.

 An example is on the video. The horizontal line has stitches sized lines pre-printed. Well, in this case, I prepared it by myself since I do not have one.

The purpose of this video is NOT to criticize other Sashiko stitchers on Youtube or other platforms. I just want to share how we enjoy Sashiko stitching without focusing on the results. I am not saying that everyone should enjoy the Sashiko as we do. What I am trying to say here is that it does not require so much time to stitch like we do. Many people have learned the technique through our videos, workshops, and Online Class. 

I am trying to mimic one style of Sashiko stitching I can find on Youtube. The style is holding the needle with the thumb, index finger, and middle fingers and trying to control the needle tip to meet the stitches guide, which is the dot on the horizontal line here. Please pardon my clumsy work since I don’t have much experience in this style.

I believe many people stitch with looking on the front size of the fabric. Starting the stitches from the backside, which is hiding-side, with making a knot at the end of the thread. Then, come up and follow the stitches pre-printed with very good attention.

Some advice to keep the stitches on the needles as we move the needle forward. I feel as if I am enjoying a form of embroidery. I would probably make a great benefit from using the embroidery hoop if I keep stitching like this. It is difficult to align the excessive fabric, and I need to carefully pay attention & control where the needle goes in and comes out. 

Everytime I try to do this method, I experience the hard time relaxing my hands. When it is a regular embroidery, I can relax and see the image and then stitch. However, in Sashiko, since the stitches are simply on the line, I feel the pressure to neatly cover the printed stitches. 

I am a bit embarrassed here, so I will fast-forward the video. 

Again, please be advised that I am not criticising the other stitches. Obviously, I am not well-experienced in this method. However, there are reasons many Sashiko artisans in history did not have the stitched-sized-line pre-printed on the fabric. I hope this video introduces a piece of that information. 

After a line of Sashiko stitching with this posture, my hands were very tense and I got tired. I will continue stitching with switching the posture to the one I share & teach.

Well, I am used to this method. I can stitch faster and even.

The point is that I am not paying so much attention to making beautiful stitches. When we do not focus on making even stitches, the line with stitches-sized-dot pre-printed is merely an obstacle. The goal is to be on the rhythm, not to try to make the even stitches by controlling the needle with focusing on the stitches with both your eyes and hand. 

So, I summarize it to 4 reasons that I prefer rhythmical stitching rather than stitching on the “stitches-sized-dot” pre-printed fabric. 

1- Beautiful Results

The result of even stitches is the 1st reason I do not prefer the pattern pre-printed fabric. It is challenging to keep concentrated to make even stitches when I focus on the printed stitches sized dot pattern. If it is a matter of 30 minutes or so, I may be able to keep it up. However, I do Sashiko for more than a few hours, sometimes more than 24 hours. It is almost impossible for me to keep concentrated for more than an hour for anything.

Since I cannot keep my concentration for more than an hour for anything, I do not concentrate on stitching when I enjoy Sashiko. Instead, by focusing on the process and the movement, because I do not pay attention to make the stitches even, I can make the even stitches as the result.

2- I can change the stitches size based on the project.

The second reason is as significant as the first one. I would like to decide the size of the stitches based on the project I am working on. When I see the stitches-sized-dot printed pattern, I feel like, “Why does it tell me what to do in Sashiko!” ,

With the same posture, I can make any size of stitches as I wish. On the denim where I need good visuals, I make bigger stitches. When I need to present more sophisticated stitches to make the smaller pattern, then I make the stitches smaller. The stitches I make represent who I am as the Sashko artisan. It is good to have a guide on the stitching, but at the same time, I don’t want anyone to tell me the size of stitches. Similarly, I want everyone to be creative in enjoying the process and finding their own stitches.

3- Focusing on other things.

The 3rd reason is that I can focus on the other things while not focusing on Sashiko stitching. The Sashiko live Streaming on this Youtube Channel is a good example. I do not focus on stitching much, and therefore, I can stitch and talk simultaneously. 

I believe the original scenery of Sashiko is like this. Sashiko was the Japanese ordinary stitching to survive through the severe winter. In between the difficult days, I imagine, the women got together and stitched with sharing their similar circumstances. In that “gathering”, I believe, they stitched and focused on talking, which is probably mainly complaining, not the stitching itself for making the beautiful stitches.

With stitching and talking, in a process of not worrying about the results, not judging the evenness of stitching, I feel that I am following the Sashiko they had practiced in a few hundreds years ago.

4 – Be mindful

The 4th reason is kind of abstract, and kind of link to the 3rd reason.

When I do not talk while stitching, and when I decide to not to watch TV or listen to the music while stitching, I feel I can empty my mind relatively easily. 

Sashiko is not difficult, but it cannot be done with one hand. It always requires 2 hands moving all the time. No one can use the smartphone for quick research while stitching with 2 hands. It is quite difficult to have the visual information to input, and therefore I can empty my mind with focusing on “nothing” while stitching.

I feel like this is a similar mind of state to Zen.

Zen teaches us that the truth cannot be explained fully by word, only by practicing it. I feel it from time to time. Also, I have heard from my students that they understand what I meant by actually experiencing it while practicing Sashiko.

Sashiko is getting popular as the destresser. It is very true. Therefore, in order to enhance its byproduct, I would like to share the importance of learning the posture. 

I hope this video explains the reasons why I am so passionate in sharing the Sashiko with the method we practice. Sashiko is a simple form of stitching, and anyone can do it. However, there are many stories behind “why” and “how”. It would be great if you could care to learn the basics & tradition as well. As I mentioned in the beginning, the series of videos on this channel shares a great amount of information.

On top of that, if you would like to learn efficiently and comprehensively, please consider taking the Online Sashiko Class. It will help us as well.

In the Sashiko Online Class (and In-person workshop whenever I can offer), I share how you can achieve this posture & movement which we call “Unshin”. It is not difficult at all. I believe everyone can do it. However, since everyone’s hand is different in their own shape, personal attention may be necessary. One may find the rhythm & posture by just watching our stitching. That’s what I did for many decades. The online class & workshop is the comprehensive lesson to share what I learned in these 20 years or so. Therefore it is efficient & easy to learn. 

Some students can stitch as fast as I do in a matter of a few months when they follow the direction carefully and focus on “rhythm” instead of “focusing on the results”.

For some Japanese like me, Sashiko is more than a trendy word in crafting or fashion – it has been our life, and it was our ancestors’ ordinary. Your understanding & support is very much appreciated. Thank you for watching.

Resources to learn about Unshin Sashiko Stitching

The best way to learn Unshin Sashiko Stitching as we do is to take our Sashiko Workshops / Online Sashiko Class. Due to Covid-19 pandemic, all of the in-person workshop for the year 2020 has been cancelled. Please consider taking the Online Sashiko Class. After sharing the class with many students, I am confident that I can offer the exact experience as an in-person workshop can do.

Also, more information about Sashiko is available in our new website: https://www.japanesesashiko.com/

Online Sashiko Gathering Cover

Online Sashiko Gathering | The core of Sashiko

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I often wonder what Sashiko was for the Japanese in 17th or 18th century. A few hundred years later, I am sharing the Sashiko they had practiced. One of the core concept of Sashiko is a sense of community – not stitching technique, design of pattern, or accuracy of each stitches. Sashiko provided the time & place where people can get together, talk to each other, make sure everyone is okay, and stitch. It is my honor to offer the “Online Sashiko Gathering” – where we simply share the time and place over stitching & talking no matter where you are in the world.

What is Online Sashiko Gathering

Online Sashiko Gathering (OSG) is a Zoom meeting where people get together for stitching and talking. OSG is not a structured workshop or class to teach on Sashiko. A participant will bring their own stitching project, and stitch in front of the camera/smartphone sharing a beautiful time (community). There are no restriction, no time table, no assignments. Although I set up the rules to keep the OSG a healthy place, I believe a mutual respect will keep me offering the online Sashiko gathering. Please join us as if you are visiting your friend/family house for the purpose of stitching. A glass of wine and/or a cup of hot tea may be a good accompany.

Who can join the OSG

Ideally, I would like to have anyone who enjoy Sashiko. However, to keep the gathering healthy and satisfactory, please let me prioritize the students/friends who have taken (are taking) Atsushi’s Sashiko Workshop/Online Sashiko Class.

My goal is to involve everyone. This is not a rejection to anyone who have not taken Atsushi’s workhop, it is just a prioritizing for organizing purpose. Please check the paragraph of “How to join the OSG” below even if you are not taking the Sashiko Workshop/Class by Atsushi. At the same time, please consider taking the Online Sashiko Class. Many gave me a feedback that it was an eye-opening experience.

How to join the OSG

Please fill out the simple registration form below. I will send you an invitation following the priority list.

https://forms.gle/zEtw81C3tagxPU5a7

Online Sashiko Gathering doesn’t require any preparation but just installing the Zoom App on your device. However, it may be more satisfactory when you prepare your device to look at the screen while you sharing the stitching. Please check this article for the preparation you may need for joining the Zoom Session (This article is designed for those who takes the Online Sashiko Class & Live Session).

How to Login Sashiko Zoom Meeting

How much does it cost to join

A free of charge! (If you think it is “too generous”, please advise me. I couldn’t come up with pricing, and I say, “let’s do it first and then think”.)

When is the Online Sashiko Gathering

I will schedule whenever I can… It really depends on the school schedule of my daughter as well. Such a strange time & Such a new world. The dates below are confirmed.

  • Friday, July 31st, 2020, around 8 pm EST (Time will be flexible).
  • Friday, August 28th, 2020. Around 8 pm EST starting.

Online Sashiko Gathering Rules and Terms

  • Please respect each other. That’s the principal of this Sashiko Gathering. Please be nice & polite as much as you can.
  • Please keep any discussion & topics within the Sashiko Gathering, unless you get the permission from the person and/or an entire group. The participants may share their personal stories. I would like to keep the OSG as a safe place where anyone can say anything. Please do not “share” the conversation outside of the OSG with non-participants. (It is okay to share that you join the OSG, but not what happened there.)
  • I (Atsushi) will start the OSG at the scheduled time, but I may not be there for the entire time. This is a gathering anyone from any places in the world can join. I would like to welcome everyone over the time-difference. I may assign the “host” assignment someone else so that the gathering can keep going. I offer the Online Sashiko Gathering in Japanese twice a month for 2 years. It can go up to 16 hours (I know it is crazy), and I cannot be there for 16 hours. There is no set-ending time. As long as people wants to talk & stitch, The OSG continues (24 hours is the maximum due to the Zoom capacity).
  • Atsushi & hosts will have permission to remove/reject a participants who are disrespectful this Online Sashiko Gathering.
  • Atsushi may use a photo of Online Sashiko Gathering, with asking for the permission of usage.

I will keep adding the rules and terms. Please advise me if you have anything to be added or removed.

Registration Form

Please fill out the form to be on the list. I will send you an invitation to join the Google Group where I share the link to join the Online Sashiko Gathering. Please contact Atsushi if you do not receive the invitation 30 days after completing this form. Please be advised that Only Workshop/Class graduate will receive the invitation as of August 2020 due to high numbers of request.

Natural Dye Sashiko Thread 2020

Natural Dye Sashiko Thread 2020 Update

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We sincerely appreciate your understanding & interest in our Natural Dye Sashiko Thread. It has been a great pleasure to offer the Natural Color, hand-dyed by Keiko Futatsuya, in the Sashiko market in English. We have been offering the same numbering with very similar colors for almost 5 years since 2015 when Keiko first asked me to help her project. In Spring 2020, she decided to have a minor update on her Natural Dye Sashiko Thread. Here is the Natural Dye Sashiko Thread 2020 Update.

*Due to the characteristic of hand-dye & Natural Dye, each batch has a slight color difference even in the same numbering. Thank you for your continuous understanding for the hand-made items.

Natural Dye Sashiko Thread 2020

We still offer the same numbering (with the letter “m” after the numbers) with very similar color. This is not a major update/change. However, the new Natural Dye Sashiko Thread 2020 Collection will have more “matte” taste in comparison to the previous little “shinny” colors.

This change is due to several reasons. (1) is about the production change in the thread making procedure. (2) is to have better Natural Dye Sashiko thread for Keiko’s work with Japanese Vintage fabrics.

Both of the Natural Dye Sashiko thread is beautiful, either Matte or Shine. However, please be advised that we will start offering the new Matte Natural Dye Sashiko thread after June 2020, accordingly after finishing the current inventory in the U.S.

This change will apply to all of the Natural Dye Sashiko Thread, including Indigo, Kakishibu, Muban (no-numbers) and Murazome (Uneven/Variegated). Please contact me if you have any questions & requests.

*As of June 13th, the international shipping from Japan is suspended, so we do not know when we can start offering it. I will update the product page accordingly.

Color of Natural Dye Sashiko Thread 2020

Indigo Dye & Kakishibu (Persimmon Tannin)

Both of Indigo & Kakishibu are very popular & difficult to offer. Therefore, please check the update on our Instagram & other SNS for the availability.

About the Numbering & Dye Materials

We use the same numbering & the same Dye materials in very similar procedures. The different is the result with a bit of matte taste. Please refer the list of numbering, Dye materials & color for your convenience.

  • #002 – Japanese Nutgall – Gray
  • #003 – Tangara – Beige
  • #004 – tangara – Gray
  • #006 – Myrobalan – Gray (with a hint of Green)
  • #008 – Lac Dye – Purple
  • #010 – Lac Dye – Pink
  • #010D – Lac Dye – Dark Pink
  • #011 – Lac Dye – Dark Purple
  • #013 – Madder – Pink
  • #014 – Madder – Pink
  • #015 – Madder – Pink
  • #020 – Logwood – Blue *1
  • #022 – Mountain Peach – Gray
  • #024 – Mountain Peach – Yellow
  • #025 – Myrobalan – Yellow
  • #026 – Logwood – Gray *1
  • #027 – Logwood – Purple *1
  • #028 – Logwood – Blue *1

*Tangara = bark of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza

*1: Logwood is more challenging to produce the stable color. Therefore it may not be available on the web Shop (Before 2019, they were only available in the In-person workshop & Pop-up Store). We are working on the special page for the Logwood. Meanwhile, please contact me if you are interested in purchasing them.

The reason we have “missed numbering” is that there are several colors we decided to discontinue. Some colors, we couldn’t reproduce no matter how we try. Some colors, we decided that they are too identical to issue different numbering (for example, #019 and #006 are now integrated to #006). This is the beauty of hand-dye & Natural Dye. I hope you enjoy the beauty of the “moment”.

Eco Sashiko Package

Care and Eco Sashiko Packages for your order.

atsushijp 2 Comments

I am a big believer of the power of hands. It may sound strange, but I believe I can make a (significant) difference by preparing an online order by my own hands with praying and caring. The message on the package in Japanese, hand-writing of saying “thank you”, is a way to appreciate the support from customers/friends on my business, Upcycle Stitches. This is our statement about how I think of the environment & our online business regarding the Eco Sashiko Packages.

We care about Eco & Sashiko

Eco Sashiko Packages 3

I define my business as “for profit & society”. Although it is not Non-Profit organization, I believe I can exist thanks to those (YOU) who appreciate what I am trying to do. Therefore, your order means a lot to me.

I would like to think of you and appreciate the time you use to choose the items you order. This business (Sashiko as hand-crafting & “art” industry) is not viable.

Therefore, I care. I try to protect the items as much as I can. I am well aware that a plastic bag is not good for environment, but it is essential to avoid the water damage to the item. It is unlikely to have the water damage in the transit, but we never know what can happen. Please be noted that I try to use the plastic bag I had received, and try to avoid purchasing something new (We occasionally purchase some).

However, if you prefer the plastic free packaging, please let me know your preference when you place an order. I am happy to make a package with only paper materials, such as wrapping paper & shipping envelop. Please be advised that any water damage to the package will not be covered when you choose the Eco-packaging. Insurance is available for the extra fee, or simply choose the priority mail option.

I just simply would like to be the caring & eco-friendly in my best capacity. I am not here to judge anyone and push some idealistic social norm. As much as I care for the environment, I also use the plastic in my usual days. So, please let me follow your value, and I am more than happy to do so.

Care and Eco Sashiko Packages

To be honest, it is my dream to have the Eco Sashiko Packages, which is both the best for the item and environment simultaneously, in future. As of now, I have to balance the safety, eco-friendly, and budget for the shipping materials. For that matter, I may say, I prioritize the “care for you (a customer)” more than “care for the environment”. As I mentioned above, I don’t have an answer yet. I can be mindful & caring instead of just throwing an item from a shelf to the box. Your order is much more important than that.

Therefore, one thing I can promise you here is that I will NOT outsource this packaging process to a warehouse / the 3rd party fulfillment service – (besides Amazon Storefront – which has another reason to have the storefront on Amazon).

As an Internet business manager, the time for me to make a package for you is a few opportunity to physically communicate to you. I can always answer your questions and write to you via email, but the “communicating in honesty & feeling” is very challenging thing in contrast to the physical store front.

It is my dream to have a studio where people can visit and choose what they want after touching them,

This may be a bit of “too crazy” concept. I apologize if I make you uncomfortable. However, Japanese naturally believe the concept of Animism, and so do I. Every thing has spirit in it, and I can contribute to respect the sprits for you, and for me.

*You may be an experienced hand craft-people. If so, you may know the power of “hand” and the beauty of one of a kind. Each item has a bit of different vibe – all good, just different. I try to imagine who you are, and try to make the best out of our capacity.

I appreciate your time to read our website & getting the Sashiko supplies from our website. I promise I will make a package in mindfulness, caring, and respecting way that I can do the best, until I come up with the perfect “Eco Sashiko Packages”.

Sashiko and Animism | Power of thoughts
In this article, I share the concept of Animism I learned in Japanese culture.

Sashiko Review

Your Sashiko Review help us in many ways.

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We sincerely appreciate you choosing Upcycle Stitches as your Sashiko supplier. It is our pleasure to share what we are proud of in our ordinary Sashiko project. I believe what we offer is the highest quality available, and we are also a fan of the products we are offering. This is a blog article asking for your Sashiko Review. We sincerely appreciate your time to leave your Sashiko Review – it will help us a lot in many ways.

In this Internet society, almost everyone checks the reviews before they make their decision. Your kind review directly help our business as well as the other customers who are not sure if they are getting a good supply. Please read this article to learn how to leave the Sashiko Review.

It is our sincere hope to spread the stories we have been sharing – why it is so important to be mindful of who you are purchasing from. Your choice will protect the culture & people behind it, and Thank you very much for your choice.

How to leave the review on Upcycle Stitches

When you make a purchase from our Upcycle Stitches store, you may receive a review request via email about 14 days after the delivery completion. It is an automatic service that I use for asking you to leave the review. Following the link on the email is the easiest way to give me the best thing you could provide me for.

If you have not received the email, please follow the direction below to leave your review. It is not difficult at all to make a review, but it will significantly help me to keep what we are offering now.

(1) Please go to the product page

Please visit the product you have purchased, and then please scroll down the product page.

(2) Please find a link “Write a Review”

You will find a link saying “Write a Review”. Please click (or tap) it.

(3) Please share your review.

5 stars is the best quality/service. Thank you very much for your time.

Sashiko Review on SNS (Facebook Page)

Atsushi shares our stories on SNS, such as Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube. Your feedback on SNS where applicable is very much appreciated as well. If you like what Atsushi shares & his service, please leave your review here.


How to leave a review on Other “Upcycle Stitches” Website.

Besides the official Upcycle Stitches store, we have 2 other storefronts to provide the Sashiko supplies we are passionate about. We have a virtual store on Etsy and Amazon. (For the reason why I have 3 storefronts, please read the article about it.)

Reasons why we have several Sashiko Storefront.


Each platform has an easy process to leave a review. If you are a previous customer from these storefront, your precious time to leave the comment there would help us to continuing our service. 

How to write a review on Etsy

If you have placed an order on Etsy Store, please visit their Q&A page for “how to leave a review“. It is very straight forward.

How to write a review on Amazon

If you have placed an order on Amazon store front, please visit this page to learn how to leave a review. It is super easy. As much as we appreciate your product review, the Seller Review will help our business a lot. Thank you very much for your time for doing this.

【Note for the follow-up】

As I have explained the article about different types of stores for different purpose, a customer on Amazon store may not receive the follow-up (customer service for answering question) in priority. However, if you leave a review, I will consider to prioritize to the other orders on Amazon. Your Seller Review means a lot. Thank you for your help.

Any Sasiko review is appreciated, but…

I welcome all kinds of reviews. As much as I believe our products are the supreme quality, it is not healthy to expect “everyone” will be 100% satisfied with our products. Many friends & customers proved that our products are above their expectations. However, again, any reviews / feedback will make our products better, and I will not remove the negative reviews on my own discretion.

However, for the service, it is my intention to keep our promise 100%. I will never make a case of “item not delivered” or “unwanted surprise” – you will receive what you paid for. 

If you live in my neighborhood, I can accomplish the achievement by 100% easily because I will simply visit you and hand them out to you. However, over the Internet, we need to depend on the shipping carrier. I use mainly Japan Post and USPS, and they have been providing us very awesome services. However, an unfortunate accident can happen – such as “missing package”. I promise I will do everything for you to get what you order – however, please understand that I cannot guarantee “when” you receive it unless you upgrade the shipping in which the carrier will promise us the on-time delivery.

Many people, including myself, get motivated to write a review when they experience a service below expectation. It is a fair emotion to get upset when things do not go as we wish. However, when you experience an unsatisfactory service, please contact Atsushi first, instead of leaving the review on the service. 

Let me introduce a few samples of how we respond to the situation.

1st case: Missing International Package

We live in a globalization. It is much easier to purchase an item from oversea across the nations boarder. However, please understand that it is much more complicated than the domestic shipping. We will do our best to deliver what you offer – we will not give up. However, there may be a case of taking longer time to complete. It was a surprise to learn the customer’s frustration over the International Package. I summarized the case, and it would be great if you could take a look.

Sashiko Store Nightmare | a missing package Log

2nd case: Surprise Bill on Credit Card/Paypal

As you may know, the store does NOT have any control to change the total billing amount without a card-holder’s agreement (authority). What we can do on the financial platform is to (1) make a refund up to the amount paid by customer and (2) send a customer a “money request” if the total amount is insufficient (let’s say, adding the order).

Therefore, a “Surprise Bill” will not happen. If it happens, it is a credit card fraud, and the customer needs to contact to the Credit Card company. Please make sure to confirm the total amount of the order when you place one.

Honesty is one of my core belief

Well… I can technically delete negative Sashiko review. However, I don’t do so because what I would like to share through the Sashiko here is honesty and dignity. If a customer receives a bad-service / defective item, I will follow up with my best capability. If a review is about the product, I will do my best to improve the product by talking to the manufacturers.

So if you happen to be a customer who feel the service/product is not satisfactory, please give me another chance. Please contact me first before writing a review. When a request is within common sense, I will do everything to make it right.

Your help is very much appreciated.

You may think that it is just a review. However, a review is one of the biggest helps I can ask. One smiley face or 5 stars on Our Web Store, Etsy, and Amazon’s Storefront will help my business significantly & massively.

I sincerely appreciate your time to write a review, and I will keep improving our service & products to support your wonderful Sashiko projects & learning. Thank you very much.

Atsushi’s Sashiko Preference as a Sashiko Artisan

atsushijp 1 Comment

I have several social media to share the Sashiko we have been practicing. Each social media has a theme & unique contents. Youtube – for sharing my real voice & actual practice. Instagram – to share the stories of the Sashiko we are proud of. Facebook Group – for asking to think together what the Japanese Sashiko for us. My messages are quite simple. One of them is “There is no such a thing as Right Sashiko and Wrong Sashiko”. Although there is no such a thing as right Sashiko, I have a strong preference in Sashiko, and I do care to protect the Japanese Sashiko from Cultural Appropriation. I received an inquiries asking to share Sashiko preference in my Sashiko life. So, here is Atsushi’s Sashiko preference as a Sashiko artisan.

*For Cultural Appropriation in Sashiko, please read the article.

Sashiko Preference

Indigo Dye Thread on the Indigo Dyed Vintage Fabric (Authentic Indigo Dye) with running stitch. This is just beyond the words.

Sashiko is getting popular as a term to embrace several keywords in sustainability, such as “visible mending”, “slow-stitching” and “slow fashion”. As I have been sharing here and there, the core of Sashiko is not in those words.

The significant message I would like to advocate is that “the Boro (& Sashiko) is not a word for visible mending”.

So, as much as I am open-minded to the movement & cultural transition, there is a boundary of cultural appropriation, and I have a very specific preference in what “I” would like to call a piece “Sashiko” and “Boro”. Again, please read the article about the Cultural Appropriation in Sashiko, first. I am perfectly fine for you to call your stitching “Sashiko” as long as you try to respect the Japanese culture. Here, this is just my Sashiko Preference as the Sashiko artisan.

Here is a bullet point list of my Sashiko preference. It will be interesting to compare based on the bullet-point number. For example of (3), I prefer “Our Sashiko” instead of “My Sashiko”.

Sashiko I like

  1. The Sashiko that I can feel the rhythm of. When a stitcher focuses on the stitching itself (process), he/she pays less attention to how the results should be. I like the Sashiko by stitcher just enjoying Sashiko. 
  2. Modest Invisible Mending (Mending is visible, but not showing off.) 
  3. The Sashiko with the sense of “Our Sashiko” that Sashiko with deep consideration to others, thoughtfulness, and stories, which may be categorized as “collectivism”.
  4. Geometric Patterns (because of their stories)
  5. The Sashiko come out of well thought questions with learning, before asking – and the result of Sashiko with well-understanding of “What is Sashiko”.
  6. The Sashiko with a sense of“Wabi-Sabi” & Japanese Courtesy.
  7. The Sashiko with full respect to the Japanese culture – which occasionally include some Japanese language (just trying).
  8. The Sashiko with Flow – running stitch.
  9. The Sashiko done by those who wonder if it is Sashiko or not (I am also one of those who wonder what is Sashiko to us). 

Sashiko that I do not like so much

  1. I do not like the Sashiko mainly focuses on the result. When a stitcher focuses on the result of how it should be, it loses the rhythm of stitching. I know many stitchers stop stitching because they continue judging themselves (including myself – I hated Sashiko because of this).
  2. Visible Mending, specially those colorful, that showing off the mending itself (Please try to find the articles about Boro is NOT a word for Visible Mending. It is in fact opposite.)
  3. I do not like the Sashiko with the sense of “My Sashiko” that Sashiko with individualism. I have seen some who use the word “freedom” as an excuse to not to learn the Sashiko tradition. Individualism & freedom is good by itself. Improvisation & transformation is good. However, I want them to choose based on their preference, not by the capacity.
  4. Non-geometric Patterns (like a drawing). 
  5. Sashiko from quick Questions that they can find the answers to if they spend a minute or so, and the result of Sashiko with superficial understanding of “What is Sashiko”.
  6. The Sashiko with a sense of “Asking for Admiration as the Art” & “superficial niceness” 
  7. The Sashiko without any respect to the Japanese culture – which includes the western individualism of “How dare you tell me what to do”. 
  8. The Sashiko with perfectionism, such as One stitch by one stitch.
  9. The Sashiko done by those who think they know Sashiko.

Just my Preference

Keiko with more playful mind enjoy her own Sashiko. In contrast, I as more conservative Sashiko artisan doesn’t prefer the red fabric in the Boro-to-be fabric.

Please be advised that this is merely “My” Sashiko preference. I have a partner (my mother, Keiko) in Sashiko activities, and she has her own preference, which somewhat similar, but a few are very much opposite.

I do not want to define what the Japanese Sashiko is here. The Sashiko I practice (the Sashiko I define) is definitely a part of Japanese Sashiko, but not equal to the Sashiko’s whole picture. Therefore, I have so many Social Media where I can think together what Sashiko is for Japanese, and to the world.

Please do not be discouraged to share/enjoy your Sashiko by learning my Sashiko preference. Extremely speaking, “What to make” is not that important. What make “Sashiko” is probably “How to approach the stitching”. I am still learning. I am just more experienced than many of you.

It would be great to keep sharing the Sashiko I love & the Sashiko you respect, and think together to pass down this ordinary, yet beautiful stitching culture.

*Anyone can join the Facebook Group. Please be advised that the group is NOT a place to find the tips for the techniques. It is a place to think what is the Sashiko for the Japanese people (in Japanese Culture). If you are willing to join, please read the guideline there. I made the Facebook group because I was so tired of seeing the Sashiko I do not like in the ocean of the Internet.

Last Update: May. 15th, 2020.

I will keep updating this article. You may find more information on Patreon Articles, if you are interested.