3-Days Sashiko Workshop with Japanese Sashiko Artisan Atsushi Futatsuya will be held in March 2025 in Stuart, FL, offering a deep dive into the Sashiko technique. The workshop will begin with [Core & Essence] and progress to [Application & Practice], providing a rare opportunity to learn the fundamentals of Sashiko, including the essential Form (Kata). Much like mastering basic cooking techniques, understanding this foundation is crucial. This comprehensive workshop will cover almost everything we can teach, ensuring it enriches your Sashiko experience.
Join Us for a 3-Day Sashiko Workshop in Florida – March 2025
Join our 3-Days Sashiko Workshop in Florida for a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Sashiko stitching, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner. This workshop goes beyond the basics, offering perspectives on Sashiko rarely introduced in English. The focus is on mastering the core elements of traditional Sashiko, with an emphasis on the Form (Kata)—the essential techniques that form the foundation of the craft. Just as learning to handle basic tools is key in cooking, proper form is crucial to embracing Sashiko as an art.
Over three days, we’ll share nearly everything we know about Sashiko. Whether you’re new to the craft or refining your skills, this workshop will deepen your connection to the tradition, offering insights and techniques that will enrich your Sashiko experience for a lifetime.
The Core & Essence of Sashiko
The [Core & Essence] of Sashiko focuses on the deep principles and philosophies behind the art of Sashiko stitching. More than just a decorative practice, Sashiko originated as a practical technique used by Japanese communities for mending and reinforcing fabric. Over time, it evolved into a meaningful form of artistic expression, combining utility with beauty.
This workshop will explore these fundamental concepts, emphasizing that Sashiko is not just about stitching patterns but is deeply connected to rhythm, mindfulness, and the relationship between hand and fabric. You’ll learn to appreciate how each stitch represents more than just a technical act—it is a meditative practice, reflecting the spirit and intention of the maker.
During the [Core & Essence] portion of the workshop, you will be guided through the fundamental movements and techniques that give Sashiko its unique rhythm and flow. Mastering this aspect is key, as it helps you develop a deep understanding of the Form (Kata) that underpins all Sashiko stitching. Similar to learning to hold and use a knife and cutting board when beginning to cook, mastering the form in Sashiko is essential for building a strong foundation. This includes learning the right posture, the hand movements, and the proper tension in your stitches.
You’ll also discover the cultural significance of Sashiko, understanding how it ties into Japanese history and its connection to sustainability, simplicity, and the spirit of “mottainai” (the feeling of regret over waste). These elements are at the heart of Sashiko, influencing its aesthetics and practice today.
From Core to Practice
Once you have a solid grasp of the [Core & Essence], we’ll move on to [Application & Practice], where you can begin applying these techniques to more intricate projects. Whether your focus is on mending, embroidery, or textile design, the 3-Days Sashiko Workshop in Florida will offer invaluable insights to help you elevate your work. You’ll move beyond simple stitching and learn to create pieces that truly embody the spirit of Sashiko.
Throughout the course of this 3-Days Sashiko Workshop in Florida, we will share nearly everything we know and can teach about Sashiko. Whether you are new to the craft or looking to enhance your existing skills, this immersive workshop promises to deepen your connection to this traditional Japanese art form. We are confident that it will enrich your Sashiko experience, providing insights and techniques that will last a lifetime.
I will be there to support your learning comprehensively
I will be attending the 3-Days Sashiko Workshop in Florida to thoroughly learn Sashiko from its Core & Essence, diving deep into the foundational elements that make this craft so unique. This workshop isn’t just about learning stitching techniques; it’s about understanding the true heart of Sashiko—its rhythm, form, and the philosophy passed down through generations. By immersing myself in this experience, I aim to grasp the essence of Sashiko, from the precise hand movements to the cultural significance of each stitch. This workshop will allow me to explore the mindful, meditative aspects of Sashiko while developing the skills to practice it with precision and intent. I’m excited to embark on this journey, focusing on both the technical mastery and the deeper, traditional meaning of this beautiful craft.
We have several In-Person Sashiko Workshops scheduled throughout 2025. To find the perfect workshop for you, please check our Sashiko Class Schedule for 2025.
https://upcyclestitches.com/sashiko-workshop-2025
If you’re eager to start learning Sashiko immediately, we invite you to explore our Online Sashiko Class via the link below. This online option offers a convenient way to begin your Sashiko journey from the comfort of your own home, providing comprehensive lessons that cover all the core techniques.
It is my sincere pleasure to re-join the QuiltCon 2025 as a Faculty. This page is for those who plan to attend QuiltCon 2025 Sashiko Workshops & Lecture, “Core & Essence”, “Apply Hitomezashi to our Ordinary” and “Aesthetics of Stitching from a Sashiko Artisan – Why Do We Stitch“. Please find the details below to see what you can expect in QuiltCon 2025 Sashiko Workshops & Lecture.
For those who have the registration confirmation, I will prepare the support page below.
*The Support Page will be available later when it gets close to QuiltCon
*If you do not have a registration confirmation to join the QuiltCon 2025 Sashiko Workshops & Lecture, please contact MQG for the possible waiting list. In the previous QuiltCon, there were a few last minutes cancellation, and there may be a chance for you to join this year. Also, I offer Online Sashiko Class as well as a few In-person Workshops (for 2024 & 2025). Please check each articles for the details. Thank you.
*I have a feeling that QuiltCon 2025 will be the last QuiltCon I teach Sashiko [Core & Essence]. This is my 5th year to teach the exact same workshop, and I find it quite rare to repeat the same contents. The Sashiko Workshop [Core & Essence] is the fundamental of pretty much all of my teaching in Sashiko – like teaching how to use a specific Japanese knife & cutting board before sharing some recipe for Japanese cooking. It would be difficult to create another contents for those without completing the [Core & Essence]. I am happy to consider re-applying to QuiltCon 2026 when I have a list of interest. I respect the QuiltCon’s philosophy, goals and policy – and I understand that it isn’t the best match to keep offering something same repeatedly. If you couldn’t register yourself for QuiltCon 2025, and yet wish to take the [Core & Essence] in the future QuiltCon, please fill out the Google Form below so that I will consider the possibility. Thank you.
*The Support Page will be password protected after the QuiltCon, and I will send the Password for those who attended the workshop. The offer available on the Support Page are only available to those who sign up & purchased the Special Supply Package. Misuse of any offers are subject to the actual price adjustment. Thank you for your understanding!
QuiltCon 2025 Sashiko Workshops & Lecture
In QuiltCon 2025, I offer 2 kinds of Sashiko Workshops & Lecture. One Workshop is my signature workshop [Core & Essence] and Another Workshop is my new challenge [Sashiko: Apply Hitomezashi to our Ordinary], which doesn’t have any prerequisite to join. The Sashiko Lecture is about “Aesthetics of Stitching from a Sashiko Artisan – Why Do We Stitch.”. In this page, I explain what you can expect in each Workshop & Lecture, which includes information about preparation may be required.
QuiltCon 2025 Sashiko Workshop [Core & Essence]
In our tradition, Sashiko is NOT about making perfect (or Inperfect) stitches. It is all about moving (trusting) a needle comfortably while communicating the fabric. Unfortunately, the current trend of Sashiko is missing one important aspect of Sashiko. In this “Core & Essence” workshop, I will teach you the core technique of our Sashiko so that you can start focusing on communication rather than judging each stitches you make.
It is extremely important to take this workshop before jumping in to any of other workshops we offer. There are a few Japanese terms that the participants need to memorize (not so many & no exams or whatsoever, but knowing them is important).
On Instagram and Facebook, I often say: Sashiko is NOT ◯◯. This workshop “Core & Essence” will give you the answer what Sashiko is for you while you learning new techniques.
*This workshop is not a type of “Let’s Enjoy Sashiko Togeher” workshop. It is one-direction learning experience for you. The participants are required to stitch a lot. They may have to go through some “uncomfortable” stitching experience (due to new muscles they use). Sometimes, it may require some mindfulness in an eye-opening experience. Please do not be scared or worried, however. I will do everything to help you to “experience” and “start enjoying” the Sashiko we practice today.
*There is NO prerequisite for this workshop. No experience in Sashiko is necessary. If you have never touched the hand-stitching needle, please try to learn how to “thread” the needle, or how to use the threader (videos are available on my Youtube). On the other hands, if you think you already know about Sashiko, please try to be as open-mind as possible. What I teach in this workshop is probably different from what you already know. There is no such a thing as “Right and Wrong” in Sashiko: and I will add another perspective of Sashiko in this workshop.
It is extremely important that everyone has the exact same materials & tools to pass down the Core & Essence within 6 hours. Please purchase the special package below before the QuiltCon 2025.
What to bring to Sashiko: Core & Essence.
The Special Package above is all you need to enjoy the Sashiko: Core & Essence. If you choose to receive it to your home, please bring all of the contents inside.
The following list is something maybe helpful for you to bring & prepare:
Masking Tape or Bandage to protect the nail from scratching by needles.
It may a good idea to cut the nail on the dominant hand (the hand with the needle). One can learn Sashiko with long nails, but it may be an obstacles in the first trial.
Sashiko Workshop: Apply Hitomezashi to our Ordinary
Hitomezashi is a popular style of Sashiko to apply our Ordinary Stitching & Fashion. This workshop introduces a standard process of enjoying Hitomezashi. Starting from learning how to prepare the grid on the fabric, how to “create” the Hitomezashi pattern, stitch Hitomezashi & apply it to a favorite Quilt/Garment (stitching on Used Denim or thin cotton fabric is Recommendation).
Unlike another Sashiko Class “Core & Essence” Atsushi offers, this workshop does NOT include a strict learning & stitching practice. A participant can use any thread & tools that they want to use. You may purchase a package of materials prepared, but it is not required to purchase.
The Objective is to learn how creative we can be while appreciating the Cultural Significance of Sashiko by approaching both visible & invisible mending while maximizing the joy of Hitomezashi. Experience in Sashiko: [Core & Essence] will be a great help to maximize this workshop, but not required.
Cottons Thread (Preferably Sashiko Thread, but any threads are fine) – (Recommendation)
Needle (Preferably Sashiko Needle, but any needles are fine) – (Recommendation)
Several Small Swatch of Fabric, about the size of 4” x 4” (No bigger than 7” x 10” and No smaller than 3” x 3”). Just in case, please prepare – several kinds of fabrics. This will be used for the “Patches”. Any Cotton Fabric would be fine, but this fabric is our recommendation for Sashiko including Hitomezashi.
A garment (or any other fabric items) that you would like to attach the Sashiko Stitched Swatch(es). It can be with some damages such as torn or a hole – or without Damage is perfectly fine, too. If there is enough time Atsushi would also like to cover attaching the patches
Chalk Pencil, or Fabric Marker. Please choose the one which you can draw on the fabric you will bring. Fine Point pen/pencil is recommended. It will be helpful to have 2 or more colors, if possible.
Masking Tape
A Ruler to draw straight lines. Please bring longer/bigger Ruler than the fabric you prepare.
A tool to cut the thread (to the ideal length) – A pair of Scissors if you want to prepare a skein of Sashiko Thread for the optimal usage (I believe QuiltCon has some Scissors available).
US Letter Size Card Stock Paper with 5mm Grid Pattern Printed (PDF will be provided via email). Preferably the card stock thickness of 199 GSM or more. Please bring several copies if possible.
Please check the article for “What is Recommended Supply” (Preparing).
The Optional Supply Package with Required & Optional Supply (excluding scissors, thread clipper and Garment you want to stitch on) is available for purchase.
These are the Supplies & Tools you may bring. Depends on the level of your stitching, these items may be helpful in the Workshop.
Thimble (Preferably the one from Core & Essence) – (Recommendation)
Basting Thread
Pencil Sharpener for Chalk Pencil
Threader
Extra Card Stock Papers with Grid on, with changing the Grid Size.
Any Tools to make stitching comfortable. ex) an embroidery hoop if one feel comfortable stitching with it. I recommend non-stretchy items. Avoid T-shirts or sweaters.
Required Preparation
Please cut fabrics you want to stitch on to the size about 4″ x 4″, no bigger than 7” x 10”, and no smaller than 3” x 3” (change the size based on your preference). Please bring threads in a form that you can use right away.
Sashiko Lecture: Why Do We Stitch?
Aesthetics of Stitching from a Sashiko Artisan – Why Do We Stitch
Aesthetics can be defined as one’s appreciation of beautiful things. We choose to stitch in a society where we can purchase something already stitched. Is there any link between our choice & Sashiko’s Aesthetics? What is the philosophy behind the stitching for a Sashiko Artisan (Atsushi) who has been hand-stitching throughout his life? Why does he even still practice Sashiko?
This is the Lecture introducing Atsushi’s Sashiko. It starts from his childhood to Today’s form of stitching why he is teaching Sashiko in English. We hope to introduce another way to approach stitching with another way to embrace the aesthetics to fully appreciate Sashiko in Western Quilting World. Why Do You Stitch? Atsushi is ready to share why he stitches.
Learning someone’s Aesthetics from different cultures will be the bridge between Appropriation to Appreciation of other cultures. There is a person who decided to dedicate all of his entire life into Sashiko, and this is his Story to share the Aesthetics of Stitching as Adding Stories to our own Fabrics.
About Recommended Tools for our Sashiko
The Special Supply Package for the [Core & Essence] Workshop includes everything the participants need in the workshop. There is no need to prepare thread, needle, thimble or fabric for learning Sashiko in this workshop. In order to avoid unfortunate misunderstanding, for [Core & Essence] I require everyone to use the exact same tools & supply.
That being said, there are a few recommended tools for Sashiko, which is NOT necessary yet very useful when you wish to continue Sashiko stitching. You can find another article here for Recommended Tools.
In the Sashiko we practiece, we try to make both side of the fabric as the “finished Side.” To make it easy to cut the thread left over, this thread clipper is a good idea to have.
Our Sashiko Thread is quite easy to get tangled when it is not properly handled. This Bobbin Paper is designed to keep the Sashiko Thread in a good shape for a travel or heavy usage.
It is important to learn how to prepare the pattern by ourselves as Sashiko Practitioenrs. One way to prepare the fabric is to “transfer”. This paper will help us to do better.
Recommended Items are available as a Set Deal for Quiltcon 2025
General Information for the Recommended Tools & Supplies for Sashiko Stitching
I am here to Support
After receiving the participation confirmation, if you have any questions about QuiltCon 2025 Sashiko Workshop “Core & Essence”, please contact Atsushi. I am happy to answer any questions or worries prior to the workshop.
Your question may be someone’s question, and I will share the question and answers here on this website (of course, annonymously).
I am looking forward to meeting you in the QuiltCon.
As the word “Sashiko” gets so popular, we can find many articles, publications, Art Pieces, and any form of projects using the word “Sashiko” with or without Consulting Work for Sashiko Project. Many of them follow the idea of Sashiko within their capacity. Unfortunately, some are completely ignoring the Cultural Understanding of Sashiko. It is true that there are not much information available in English regarding Sashiko. By simply following the information from the Online Sources, the project can mislead the audience even if it isn’t the intention of the authors or organizers. To avoid further misleading the culture, I decided to start offering the Consulting Work for Sashiko Project.
The lack of information regarding Sashiko (and other Japanese culture) is caused by many factors. One of my favorite saying is, “Westerns (Developed Cultures) Ignorance, and Japanese’s Laziness”. It is true that Japanese people neglected to explain their Cultural Significance for many decades. For Sashiko, as I am somewhat proficient in both Japanese & English, I will try my best to get out of the “Laziness” of explaining the cultural part of Sashiko.
Service of Consulting Work for Sashiko Project
The Service itself is quite specific as all I can offer is the consultation from the perspective as a Sashiko Artisan. However, because of this speciality, I believe the consulting Work for Sashiko Project will be very valuable.
What I can offer is:
Providing the Voice(s) from Japanese Sashiko Artisan(s). I have a group of Sashiko Artisans stitching actively together. It won’t be just my own personal imagination.
Translation with adding as many “annotation” from Cultural Perspective. As my translation itself isn’t so professional level, it would be very efficient to combine a translator & me as a contents proof reader like below.
Proof Reading to check if the writing is Culturally Inappropriate.
Advise to Apply Sashiko Philosophy to your Project
Advise to Publication, Articles, Films, and any other materials toward the general public
Potential Clientele I am hoping to work with
It is my pleasure to work with anyone & any organizations who are interested in what I would say. That being said, the Clienteles that I am imagining to work with are following:
An Organization which try to apply Sashiko’s Philosophy to their project
A Media potentially writing/filming about Sashiko Stitching & related philosophy
An Author/Publisher who are planning to write an article/book about Sashiko
Any Organization/Individuals who consider using the word “Sashiko” for commertial purpose without anyone Japanese in the process.
How much does it cost?
At this point, I do not know how much I “should” charge for the Consulting Work. In fact, it depends on the type of request. If you interested in having me, please reach out to me from the contact form below.
*To make it sustainable & considering that I would work with organizers/companies, please expect $100.00 ~ $150.00 hour rate or so. It will, of course, change on based on the request. I am setting the line to avoid the unfortunate misunderstanding. I will not reply to the request without this base understanding.
*My recent works in 2024 (as a Contribution to the Article/Meida) have ranged between 500+ words, with compensation typically between $500–$700.Depending on the topic and length, I might be open to offering a slight discount.
Sample Consulting Work for Sashiko Project
I haven’t announced this Consulting Service in the past. However, several organizations & publishers were very considerate on their projects. They invited me to their project & ask for the voice to make the project & writing more Culturally aligned to the history.
Here are several sample works I have worked with.
2023 – Longwood Garden, Illumination with Sashiko’s Philosophy
You may be wondering if you would need Consulting Service to your own personal Sashiko Work. As much as I would love to offer my feedback to your Sashiko, I do not think it is necessary to have me as your consultant. Instead, please consider joining to my teaching opportunities from below. If you want to see how my teaching is like, please start with Domestika Course. Then, when you wish to learn Sashiko more seriously, please consider taking the [Core & Essence] Class (Online or In-Person)
It would be very much appreciated if you could support me on Patreon Platform where I continue sharing the Sashiko Story. With the monthly support of as less as $5.00, I am happy to offer my advise on your Sashiko Project when it is done for your own leisure.
*Please consider hiring me if your Sashiko is for commertial purpose like mentioned above as “Potential Clientele I am hoping to work with”.
Please involve Japanese who knows what they are talking about
When I see a group of people are discussing on a topic “What is Sashiko/Boro” without anyone who aren’t really a part of Japanese culture, I feel very strange. They define what Sashiko/Boro is without even asking/talking to the Japanese people.
It is okay when the discussion is done as a part of hobby or leisure, I guess. However, when it is done as a part of Cultural Contents of the Company or Media, I believe it is important to have someone who knows what they are talking about. Even more seriously, when it is in a “teaching Setting” such as Workshop or Class, as the students/participants will naturally believe what the teachers say, the contents need to be throughly examined to avoid the misunderstanding.
Unfortunately, this offer may be too late as I see quite many misunderstanding & teaching with misleading information. However, it doesn’t mean that I can give up my own cultural practice. I hope that this service will help them to realize it is more than what is introduced in English. The Sashiko introduced in English is very simplified, yet romanticized, for the entertaiment & profit purpuse.
Sashiko In-Person Workshop Schedule 2025 is now available, and we are thrilled to continue offering these workshops throughout the coming year. We sincerely appreciate your interest in learning Sashiko with us. Below, you will find all the detailed information regarding the 2025 schedule.
This post summarizes the workshops that Atsushi will be offering in 2025. We are intentionally limiting the number of workshops to ensure each participant receives an enriching and thorough experience. Due to demand, these workshops can fill up quickly based on location and timing. Once they are fully booked, I am unable to manage the participant list. If you see an available spot, we encourage you to register as soon as possible.
If you have any questions about registration or other administrative details, please contact the hosting organization or studio directly, as they will provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect.
*For those eager to start learning Sashiko now, rather than waiting for an in-person workshop, I highly recommend considering the Sashiko Online Class (2024–2025). Many participants have shared positive feedback, stating that the online class provides the same deep understanding of what Sashiko truly is. Some even prefer it, as they can learn at their own pace. I am always available virtually to support your Sashiko learning experience.
QuiltCon 2025 (Phoenix, AZ) – Feb 20th & 21th, 2025
It is another pleasure to be a faculty in QuiltCon again. This year, I will be offering Sashiko Workshop [Core & Essence], a short Version titled [Apply Hitomezashi to your Ordinary] (In-Person Version similar to Domestika Course), and a Lecture about [Why we stitch (Sashiko)].
Please check the detail below for the possible participation to Quitcon 2025 & Sashiko Workshops & lecture. (Waiting for Registration Opens).
Aya Fiber Studio (Stuart, FL) – March 7th to 9th, 2025
3-Days In-Person Workshop has become my Standard & Best Style of Teaching the Sashiko we practice, starting with [Core & Essence] and following [Application & Practice]. This 3-Days Workshop will offer fun, educational, and intensive 18 ~ 21 hours of stitching together. Plan your time in beautiful beach in FL with Sashiko.
Sashiko introduced in English often focused on “Outcomes” too much without acknowledging the Japanese mindset behind Sashiko Practice. In order to fully appreciate the culture, one needs to learn the “new muscle memory” that is quite unique to many western style stitchers. This 3 Days workshop will keep encouraging you to learn something new from both technical & mindset perspective. With receiving many positive feedbacks, we are confident that this will be an eye opening experience for you.
Madeline Island School of the Arts (La Pointe, WI) – July 2025
This is my first time to offer 5-Days Workshop. In a beautiful Campus of MISA with an appreciation to the Spiritual feeling, we will invite you to fully enjoy Sashiko. I decided to call it Sashiko Retreat.
It is quite interesting to see Sashiko being famous as a word to express “Visible Mending”. It is true that Mending is a big part of Sashiko – however, they stitched to make fabric stronger so that they can avoid the mending until the last moment. For that, Sashiko is a word for “Invisible Mending”, yet “stitching/mending” itself can heal us regardless of the result.
Sashiko is NOT similar to Zen at all, although Stitching can bring us Zen-like outcome. While explaining the difference between Zen and Sashiko, I would like to offer the realization of outside of Dualism & Western Value System.
*The contents are very similar to In-Person 3 Days Workshop, starting with [Core & Essence] and following to [Application & Practice]. You are always welcome to join even after the In-Person 3 Days Workshop & a few participants have participated the workshop as a repeater & found themselves in learning more. Please be reminded, though, that the 5-Days Workshop is composed based on [Core & Essence] and [Application & Practice].
No Workshops near your place? Invite Atsushi to Your Place
Please consider bringing Atsushi to your Group (or even to you as a private course) if you do not find a ideal location & time for you to join Sashiko In-Person Workshop Schedule 2025. Depends on the size of your group & location, this may be the best arrangement for you. Please take a look at the article below & contact Atsushi for the availability.
In most cases, when you have me for an individual group, it will be a Day workshop. I will do my best to make the day memorable & something special. Sashiko is a stitching in Ordinary, but I am confident that I can make the day extraordinary with sharing our ordinary.
If you are an organizer wishing to offer Sashiko Workshop with Atsushi to add Sashiko Workshops to your program, please check the “Pricing Benchmark” PDF from the link Above.
In last 7 years of experience, we have never experienced the case of “Cancellation” due to the lower numbers of participations (below the minimum enrollment). In fact, the workshop will sell out pretty quickly especially when it is the first time for the organizer to have me.
In the “New Normal” after the pandemic, many things move to “Online”. In this trend, I have strong respect for those who maintain the physical locations as Studios and Museum to offer In-Person workshops. It is my intention to contribute to your place with the best Workshop Experience.
Sashiko Online Class (24~25)
Sashiko Online Class is available for those who would like to start learning Sashiko “Right Now” from your own house/room. After offering Sashiko Workshops over the Internet for a while during the Covid-19, I am confident that I can deliver the same message & learning experience via Sashiko Online Class. I “restock” Sashiko Online Class each month, based on the numbers of participants who signed up for the specific period. If you find it available, there is no need to fulfill the waiting list.
I am looking forward to meeting you online!
More to Come for Sashiko In-Person Workshop Schedule 2026
I hope that I can keep offering the workshop in the year of 2026. For the latest information, Please follow Instagram, Business for @UpcycleStitches and Sashiko Stories for @SashikoStory for the latest update!
This week, I plan to have Sashiko Workshops & Sashiko Lecture at Bennington College in VT. It is my first time to offer the Sashiko Workshop & Sashiko Lecture in an academic setting as an invited guest lecturer. The Professor, J Stoner Blackwell, had invited me to such a honorable opportunity to share the Sashiko We have been practicing. They joined the Sashiko Workshop [Core & Essence] at Loop of the Loom in NYC. As someone who teach, it is the biggest reward that they contacted me to share their experience to their students & community after the initial workshop.
This visit will be consisted with 3 parts, (1) Sashiko Workshop to their students in Art Department (2) Sashiko Workshop to the local community (Open to the public with workshop fee), and then (3) Sashiko Lecture at Bennington College (Open to the publich For Free of Charge).
The Sashiko Workshop [Core & Essence] is very structured, and there aren’t much I can modify. In contract, as I received 2 hours for the lecture, I am planning a lecture that I can choose based on the reaction in the auditorium. I don’t really know who will be the audience… the students or artists from community… or even faculty…?
Bennington College has a quite beautiful mission. I share it below & I hope that I can meet their expectation.
In 1932, Bennington was founded on the belief that the education most worth having is the one you create for yourself. The College does not require students to fulfill a set of ready-made requirements; instead, it challenges them to discover their own intellectual identity and to design an education that will help turn them into the person they hope to become.
The College’s faculty plays a crucial role in this process of transformation. At Bennington, faculty members do what they teach, and students put their learning into practice. Students learn about literature from authors who write and publish it, in the same way that they learn choreography from dancers who create and perform their own work. Physicists and philosophers and playwrights teach at many other colleges, but typically, they ask their students to do very different work from the kind they do themselves. At Bennington, students don’t just learn about biology – or poetry, history, or anthropology – from their teachers; they also practice it along with them. Because both students and teachers actively engage in the work at hand, the relationship between them is richly collaborative, and students often participate in the research and creation of faculty work.
The New Possibility for “Sharing Sashiko”
The Sashiko Workshop & Sashiko Lecture at Bennington College is sponsored by Painting and Drawing at Bennington College, The Robert Frost Stone House Museum with additional funding from Usdan Gallery. This is my first time to work under someone’s funding/grant. Thanks to the generous support from these funding, we could reduce the workshop price substantially.
I strongly believe that the pricing for my Sashiko Workshop [Core & Essence] is reasonable. The host (Studio/Organization) needs to make their ends meet, and I need to feed myself, too. To make it sustainable. it has been the right pricing for both host & guest (students). The waiting list I often get for the workshop explain that the pricing is not outrageous. However, at the same time, I understand that it costs some money. I want to share the Sashiko we practice with as many people as possible – and as the result, I joined the Domestika to make the Introduction to Japanese Sashiko.
I have never tried to get Grant… for some reasons, I thought I wouldn’t be able to do so. Well, I may need extra steps to prepare such as making our activities as Non-Profit, or going through a pile of paper works… regardless, the fact I could offer the workshop with grant is a big achievement (All thanks to Prof.J). I hope I can start another journey of pursuing this new possibility.
Photo (C) William Morris Gallery, London Borough of Waltham Forest
Sashiko Lecture at Bennington College will go to more “Public”
I have learned that it is perfectly fine to repeat the Same Message in sharing stories. In fact, I realize I “have to” repeat it to be listened, or even heard. So, I plan to offer the same lecture I do tomorrow online somwhere toward May or June, 2024. When it is ready, I will inform it here, Instagram, and probably GiveButter, too.
It is about “Sashiko Today”, and it will be the summarize of all the things I talk about in Sashiko Live Streamings. If you are interested in Sashiko, please come to Youtube on Thursday night at 9 pm EST (Not this week) to see what I keep saying about Sashiko!
It is everyone’s interest to see what is Good Thread for Sashiko. I have been sharing many stories on SNS & Youtube about our sincere recommendation on Good Thread for Sashiko. It is indeed that Sashiko Thread Matters. Choosing a good thread will not only make a difference in the result of Sashiko but it also will improve the stitching experience itself. This article is an updated information about what is Good Thread for Sashiko in 2024.
*If you would like to jump to the conclusion & see what is available for purchase, please check this category. The threads listed there are all our recommendations & we use them in everyday’s stitching.
Coron Sashiko Thread – Where is it now?
Since I started Upcycle Stitches, I have been recommending “Coron Sashiko Thread” as the Best Sashiko Thread for the Sashiko Purpose. Coron Threads Manufacture.Inc is (was) a well-established & detailed manufacturer specialized in making various kinds of Threads. Where I am from (my family business) also work(ed) with them, and have been offering their wonderful Sashiko Thread.
You may find it difficult to have Coron Sashiko Thread in the last few years. Many Craft Supply Stores unlist their threads. Some even put them on sale to liquidate their inventory. Long Story Short, it is very sad that Coron Thread Manufacture. Inc doesn’t exist any longer. In the pandemic, similar to many other businesses, they decided to close their operation. It took a long time to “pass it over (revive)” to someone to continue their legacy. Thanks to many people’s help, we are now able to resource very similar (almost identical) Sashiko Threads.
We have the same thread as our recommendation – yet the Coron Sashiko Thread no longer exists. We can still use the best Sashiko Thread, yet it is so sad to see Coron Threads Company gone.
We have been sharing the reasons why we use the “Sashiko Thread (manufactured by Coron)” as a Good Thread for Sashiko for decades. It isn’t only the materials, thickness, or colors. We have so many people & wisdom to make the Thread happens. However, in a big trend of Sashiko, Sashiko practitioners mainly focus on colors & thickness. Some even say “Threads do not matter in Sashiko. Use whatever you have”.
Well. It is true that one can use any threads for Sashiko to enjoy stitching itself. However, it doesn’t mean that we can ignore the wisdom behind long-established threads. It is so violent to tell others “whatever is fine” without acknowledging the stories behind. Some may do it unintentionally (just don’t know what it is), or worse, it seems they are misleading the information to increase their profit.
Sashiko Threads Matter – and without appropriate Sashiko Thread, some of the wisdom we appreciate today will not be promised. For example, I find some Sashiko Teachers saying “It is impossible to make both sides of fabric as identical in Sashiko”. It is impossible “For Them” because they do not understand the purpose for Sashiko Thread – and the significance of the outcome of Good Thread for Sashiko.
I do not want to repeat the same mistake
We have some memories with Coron Thread Manufacture as “Company”. They were a group of Shokunin – the respected & strict people with their own skill & tradition. It indicates that they weren’t so well prepared as “Business People” in today’s society. The issues of their business challenges, such as aging of Shokunin & finding the next heir (as they couldn’t increase the compensation like other industries), existed before the big trend of Sashiko. I knew it wasn’t going so smooth, but I never thought we would lose the Coron Thread Manufacture…
I do not want to repeat the same mistake I have made. It isn’t no one’s fault that they discontinued their business. The competition & expanding the market is a very healthy business activity. Without healthy competition, the culture won’t be secured appropriately.
The mistake I clarify here is us (Japanese Artisans) not speaking up enough. It isn’t healthy to have some non-Japanese saying “Whatever thread is fine for Sashiko” without knowing any of our Stories. Please be reminded that you indeed can use any thread for Sashiko. However, it has to be “one’s choice” – not something to teach or share with others without proper acknowledgement.
I do not know if Coron Thread would have continued their production if I spoke up more decades ago. Finding someone to take over the business was indeed a big challenge for not only Coron Thread but also many types of manufacturers in Japan (including my family business). Although I don’t know what I could have done to preserve their legacy better, I know that the voices have to be heard to protect the Culture. Telling others misleading information to control the flow of profit can cause Cultural Appropriation. Here, the acknowledgement for the stories is the bridge between Appropriation to the Appreciation. Strictly & Ideally speaking, I believe they need to learn Japanese before they start sharing some of their understanding of Sashiko – however, the world isn’t made like this. In order to speak up globally, one has to be able to do so in proficient English.
Here I am – and I will not stop speaking up to not to repeat the same mistake.
It may be Just Thread – but it is Thread
Some say “Oh, Come one. Just thread. Don’t Over React”. I have been receiving comments like this to accuse my voice – to minimize the significance of the culture. It is just thread – but there are many people who devoted their lives in to “just thread”. Sashiko is “just stitching” , yet it is stitching that many of my family & friends have spent their entire lives on.
I believe it isn’t exaggerating to say that none of our Sashiko Pieces wouldn’t & won’t be made without the Thread I talk about here. Some may say it is just a thread – but it is the thread that consist of this Cultural Sustainability. By minimizing the significance of this Good Thread for Sashiko, we face to the risk of losing much more than thread.
Cultural Sustainability in Capitalism
I speak up the importance of Cultural Sustainability in contrast to Material Sustainability. Both Material & Cultural Sustainability can be established simultaneously. It is not one or another. We also have to understand that we live in a society where we cannot ignore Capitalism. For us, the money isn’t the goal to achieve. However, money is very important vehicle to achieve the goal of preserving the Sashiko Practice. Therefore, it is critical to balance the Cultural Sustainability & Capitalism.
Unfortunately, some (or many) Japanese Craftsmanship got lost in a process of sophistication of Capitalism. The market based on demand & supply will determine the future of its product, and the demand & supply will be hugely affected by “Pricing”. If I could produce cheaper threads, the market for the thread I offer may be bigger. If the market is bigger, we can probably produce cheaper threads. It is the spiral of “marketing”, and the craftsmanship need to have different approach to the market. Sashiko Thread we strongly recommend are relatively more expensive than others. I strongly believe the pricing is fair when we compare the quality and quantity of what we offer – however, I admit it is high-end of the Sashiko Thread. The quality of production determine the pricing. At the same time, the popularity of our threads will be a very big factor of the pricing – the more people enjoy the Sashiko Thread we recommend, the lower the pricing will be. The more we can manufacture the Sashiko Thread we recommend, the bigger market we can sustain by having distributors all over the world.
What we see now is the market after we failed. However, it doesn’t mean that I can give up so easily to ig nore someone overpainting our wisdom & tradition. Your choice will secure the Cultural Sustainability I speak up. I, Atsushi Futatsuya, never will use the Revenue/Profit/Sales for the unreasonable luxury items such as Lamborghini or Rolex. I am not questioning their value as luxury items, and I do have huge respect those who can afford them. However, my goal is always the preservation of Cultural Sustainability in Capitalism. Therefore, money is a vehicle to make Sashiko somewhat sustainable. All of the profit via our online store & payment to our workshop will be used for the Sashiko’s Sustainability. The purchase of Good Thread for Sashiko here will be the great support to make our dream happen.
*Please be noted that “All of the profit” indicate the profit after somewhat satisfying our daily needs. When I have reasonable bills to pay, I may clear them first. In order to achieve this goal, I may want to think of the possibility of establishing the Non-Profit Organization. Regardless, I just want to repeat my declaration that all I do is to preserve the Cultural Sustainability that has been severely damaged (or broken) already.
Good Thread for Sashiko Exists
We can find a variety of Sashiko thread available in the market. The seller describe their thread as the “Good Thread for Sashiko” to increase their sales. It is very natural things to do & that’s what I am doing. It is us (customer & stitcher) who decide what type of future (sustainability) we want to have. So, when you choose to purchase “it”, please be mindful whom you are purchasing from. Are they actually talking from their experience or just saying to increase the sales? Do they stitch Sashiko? Do they even like Sashiko or do they like “something” they can get by saying they like Sashiko?
It is sad that Coron Thread Manufacture.Inc doesn’t exist any longer. However, their wisdom and legacy are passed over to another well-established thread manufacture. The thread we carry under this category of our store are all from the new production line – either Synthetic Dye by machine or Natural Dye by Keiko’s Hand.
Your acknowledgement, choice, and time to enjoy Sashiko with our Threads are hugely appreciated. We will do our best to preserve this Cultural Sustainability. We won’t repeat the same sad news.
If you are a long-time follower, you may have seen this Jacket. The “Unshinkai Jacket” is one of the biggest achievements of my teaching Sashiko. It isn’t my work. Keiko is a designer/producer of this Jacket, but Sashiko itself isn’t done by Keiko. The Jacket is composed of 18 Japanese Sashiko Artisans who learned Sashiko via our teaching (named “Unshinkai”, equivalent to [Core & Essence] in English).
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It is my pleasure to announce that this Jacket is now exhibited in @morrisgallery (William Morris Gallery) in London as a part of their exhibition: Mingei – Art Without Heroes. It is an honor that our Sashiko Jacket is acknowledged as one contemporary interpretation/inheritance of the deep & rich philosophy of Mingei. This Jacket is indeed a piece without Specific Heroes. It is another reason I (we) do not consider Sashiko as the “Art”. Well. In order to explain Mingei, I need more time & space to write.
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I am very impressed with the title of this exhibition: “Art Without Heroes”. This explains a lot of my messages in Sashiko. There are so many self-titled Heroes in Sashiko (in English) without acknowledging the Heroes who have been preserving Sashiko. “Mingei” itself has a lot of philosophical wisdom to enrich our life today. It is quite interesting to see the William Morris Gallery focused on Mingei in English. I am so excited to learn how Mingei is interpreted in English via their exhibition. Their acknowledgement to “Unknown Heroes” will help us to preserve the Sashiko we practice.
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運針をお伝えする中で、私の夢を形にし続けてくれている「運針会プロジェクト」。運針をお伝えして現在も刺し子を続けている有志の方々と一緒に刺し子作品を作り上げる、私の刺し子への信念が詰まった作品です。18人の方と一緒に作ったこの運針会ジャケットが、イギリスのウイリアムモリスギャラリーにて、「民藝 – 主人公なき芸術」の展示会の一作品として展示頂いております。本当に光栄なことです。
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民藝を語るなんて恐れ多いのですが、この「匿名性」は日本の美を理解する為にはとても大切で、主人公なき芸術という英訳を感嘆の思いで受け止めています。民藝を表現する言葉として、「用即美」や「民衆的工芸」と称されることが多く生活の中に存在する美を、これは私の芸術だと主人公であることを主張しなくてもその美を楽しめることが、とてもとても愛おしいのです。
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昔から「刺し子とは」を考えてきました。30年経て漸くその答えを出せるかもしれないと思っています。それはこのジャケットを作れるだけの方々と出会えたから。そしてそのご縁は今も続き、広がっていること。いつかと夢見ていた、皆様との作品の美術館展示。その一歩かなと思っています。世界を驚かせるだけの作品はできています。後は声を上げること。認識してもらうこと。「主人公なき作品」そのものを主人公にしていくのです。
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#Sashiko #刺し子 #Unshinkai
Last year, I started a new challenge named “Sashiko Dialogue” with a big help from Ty (@tyxdiaz). The goal of the Sashiko Dialogues is to “deliver” the message. As the trend of Sashiko is so fast, as many are misled to “someone’s definition of Sashiko” so easily, I realize that “Sharing Stories” itself won’t be enough. It is sad that some do not care for the stories from origin when they use their “foreign word/culture”, yet it is probably what it is in today’s society. To preserve the culture, the one in the original culture has to do the labor to deliver the message.
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It is my privilege that I have so many friends from my workshop. They were (were) my students once, but now I sincerely appreciate the friendship we have. Ty is one of the young friends I have – and I occasionally & casually asked his opinion while we stitching. A series of small talks encouraged us to start the series of “Sashiko Dialogue”.
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I am well aware that what I am sharing is very difficult to “comfortably understand”. It is natural as I am sharing something outside of “Western’s Value”. As one left a comment here, “To understand your story, I have to realize that I won’t be understanding it by just reading it once or twice. I need to think & re-think while knowing I may not understand it at all.” Sashiko Dialogue is one example of the process of “Think & Re-Think” to understand what I share here (for you), and to see how I can deliver the message (for me).
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All work credit goes to Ty. Without his help, I wouldn’t be doing this. As we were a bit busy in the beginning of 2024, I thought we may need to pause it for a while. Well, I was wrong. We will restart this Dialogue, and I am happy to share this dialogue with good confidence.
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定期的に、「淳は何を伝えたいのかわからない」という英語でのコメントを頂くことがあります。そういう方は「定義は？正解は？何が間違いで何が正しいの？」という、「知りたいことは提供して貰える前提」でこの私の場所に辿り着くため、輪郭だけ紹介して中身は想像してもらうような私の文章では意味不明になるのは当たり前なのです。そして、残念ながら、そういう人は「定義や正解」が与えられる所ではしゃぎます。その定義や正解がどれだけ薄っぺらいものだとしても。
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この「定義や正解が必ず存在する」ことが当たり前の中で、如何に「その土俵では話ができない」ことを伝える必要があるか。嬉しいコメントに「淳の言いたいことを理解する為には、まず”私にはわからない可能性がある”ことを理解しなきゃね」というものがありました。文化が違えば考え方も伝え方も違います。それを吹っ飛ばしての「理解できん」は「理解したくない」と同義です。でも…伝え方を考えるのも私の仕事なんだろうと思います。
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#Sashiko #刺し子
I occasionally receive a quesiton whether we have a place (store-front) offering our Sashiko Supplies in Japan from those who are traveling to Japan. This Blog article explain how we can arrange a Shopping of our Sashiko Supplies in Japan.
We do not have a StoreFront & We do not do wholesale
As we do not have a storefront where anyone can access, it requires a bit of preparation when you would like to purchase some supplies from us. Unfortunately, due to a very limited production, we do not do wholesale business at this point. As a result, there are no craft stores carrying our Sashiko Thread, needles, thimbles, and other fabrics.
Arrange a Special Package for you
The realistic way to purchase our Sashiko Supplies in Japan would be by arranging a package from my mother so that you can receive the items while you are staying in Japan. If you are interested in this way, we are happy to offer up to 30% Off from the listing price of the items on our webstore.
You will receive 30% OFF if you are a graduate of our [Core & Essence] Sashiko Class. Please contact us with the email address you registered to the Class.
You will recieve 25% OFF if you are a returning customer of either Upcycle Stitches Store or Sashiko Story Store, but not yet [Core & Essence] graduate. Please contact us with the email address you made the previous purchase.
All other new customers will receive 20% OFF
Please contact Atsushi first to get this discount. The actual amount of the discount will be determined like above, where the package to be shipped, and when does it need to be delivered. Once I confirm the availability with Keiko, I will generate the One-Time Coupon for you so that you can get a package of our Sashiko Supplies in Japan with discount. Please be advised that one-time handling & shipping fee of $10.00 will be applied to the Total.
For the items listed, please click the store above.
Please include the information below when you contact us. Without information, I may consider the inquiry as a spam, and you may not receive the reply. It is safe to write [I am interested in the order arrangement in Japan] or something like that when you send the Contact Form.
Your name & what you would like to purchase form the Webstore above.
Your Email Address if you are a returning student/customer.
The name of the Hotel or a shipping address of the house/room you are staying
Your preference when it to be delivered.
If you do not hear from me within 3 days or so, please contact me via SNS like Instagram.
Keiko’s House & Sashiko Supplies in Japan
Keiko Futatsuya lives in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. She carries some of her threads & her pieces. If it is your strong preference to actually see the supply & purchase, visiting her house for the purchase is one option. However, to reduce a risk, we have some restriction to who can visit to Keiko’s house.
If you are a graduate of Atsushi’s Workshop (Core & Essence), you are always welcome to visit Keiko. Please simply email me with the email address you registered the workshop. I will follow-up with arrangement with Keiko.
If you are new to our Sashiko, please read the article below to arrange the appointment. Please be advised that the appointment is not guranteed as Keiko can be quite busy. It is safe to arrange the appointment at least a few month in advance. If the visit is within a few days, the appointment will not be available in many cases. To start the arrangment, please contact Atsushi after reading the article below very carefully.
Other Recommendation about Sashiko Supplies in Japan
I also receive a numbers of inquiry asking for my recommendation about Sashiko Supplies in Japan. My recommendation is what we sell, and unfortunately, there are no storefront where you can get. There are many kinds of good Sashiko Supplies in Japan, and they are available in many stories – yet they are’t my recommendation.
I understand that it is a bit troublesome process to get the Sashiko Supplies. Once we regain the structure of supply production, we may be able to restart the wholesale business. In that case, a visitor to Japan can enjoy the Sashiko Suppiles that we recommend fully.
Our Sashiko Store is located in the United States, and we make a shipment to many countries internationally. If you are interested, please check what we have… and more importantly, “Why” we keep offering these specific threads, needle, thimble and fabric.
I started seeing so many photos of Sashiko with Unshin – from those who learned Sashiko in our Workshop. You may wonder how I can tell the difference between Sashiko with or without our teaching. It is interesting that the stitches themselves start communicating once they learn how to ride on the rhythm. Sashiko introduced today is so focused on the “result” and how it looks – as the results, some teach Sashiko with ridiculous “correct answers” or tell students to embrace the imperfection. It is perfectly fine to embrace the imperfection – yet when a teacher/author teaches the students to celebrate their lack of skill, then they aren’t teaching Sashiko itself. I do not want Sashiko to be used as an excuse to not to work hard with respect to the ancestor. I want everyone to enjoy Sashiko with proper understanding & skills, too.
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I question myself how I can preserve the Sashiko we practice. The trend over someone’s profit is so strong & fast that the “definition” itself starts having its form. I don’t know the answer, yet, but I know what I can do – to keep sharing & teaching the Sashiko we practice. It isn’t the majority, yet people find us, try to learn from us, and help us to preserve it by enjoying Sashiko.
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I am feeling a bit better, so I try to be on Youtube for Live Streaming. I have nothing to hide. Please learn Sashiko from someone who actually likes stitching.
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なんとか体調は持ち直したので、これからの英語の配信と、日本時間の今日の夜の配信、頑張ろうと思っています。季節の変わり目の体調不良だったとは思うのですが、同時にここ数ヶ月のストレスも尋常じゃなくて。流行とはこれほどまでにも暴力的になりうるのかと、これまでのほほんと構えていたのが信じられないほどです。怖いです。私自身、これまでも流行に乗って誰かを傷つけていたのかもしれないと思うと、怖い。ただ、この「怖いと思うこと」自体が想像力となり、想像力さえあれば流行は暴力的にはならないので…想像力の大切さを言葉にし続けたいと思うのです。
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変化を続ける刺し子の中でどうしたら私達の刺し子を残すことができるのか。流行とは違う場所に存在する刺し子を、どう守っていけるのか。今も、そしてこれからも考え続けていかなければいけない大きな課題ではありますが、一つだけ明確になっていることがあります。それは、「私達にしかできない刺し子が存在する」ということです。運針をしない刺し子も、しっかりとした刺し子です。ただ、運針をしていないと作れない刺し子があることも事実です。無理に合わせにいくのではなく、どれだけ流行から離れていても、どれだけ真似されて無視されても、愚直に続けることこそが答えの土台になるんだろうと思っています。
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見てくれている人はいます。そして増えています。想像力がある方の中には、物語を伴わない流行の中の「答え」に疑問を持つ方もいらっしゃいます。一緒に刺し子を楽しんでくださる方もいます。一緒に作ることで形にできる作品もできるようになりました。刹那に作られる流行（60秒の映像）には、何をどうしても速さでは勝てません。勝つ必要すらない。愚直に。そして馬鹿にされることがあったらしっかり怒りつつ。楽しんで刺し子してりゃ、きっといつかは報われると信じて。
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#Sashiko #刺し子
