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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.

atsushijp Leave a comment

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.


Reasons why we have several Sashiko

Reasons why we have several Sashiko Storefront.

atsushijp 1 Comment

Upcycle Stitches & Sashi.Co are both online based business / a group of Sashiko artisans. We offer an option to visit us to look at our Sashiko items and supplies, but they are only available by appointment (all of the plans are canceled due to Covid-19 pandemic). We do not have a physical store where a customer can stop by casually (I sincerely wish to have one as a studio one day). As a result, I made 3 storefronts to provide the better service as well as create the sustainable business operation. Here is one of reasons why we have several Sashiko Storefront.

This is a edited version of post on Feb. 2019

Official Web Store

The website you are reading now is accompany with the official web store. It is the best place to receive the best supply & best service including various kinds of follow-up such as Q&A. Your information will be registered to the Shopping-Store System (We use Ecwid), and securely stored there for the future support.

I make the website as D.I.Y project (simply because I don’t have a budget for that.) Therefore, unfortunately, it may not be the most comfortable interface. However, I keep improving the system, and products availability here. Your choice & reviews on the products are very much appreciated. It means a lot for me so that I can continue this business to support the Sashiko.

Etsy Store // Upcycle Stitches

Upcycle Stitches on Etsy is as equally important as the official website. I try to list the same item with almost the same price, and I try my best to offer the same service as well. (I separate the inventory for Official Store & Etsy, so sometimes there is a mismatch in quantity and pricing).

I started Etsy Store way before I made the Official Site. It has been a great experience with them, and I wanted to keep the Etsy store as the “back-up” market place as well as a place where I share “one-of-a-kind” items.

Your review on Etsy would be very much appreciated as well.

Amazon Storefront of Upcycle Stitches

We also have a storefront in Amazon.com to sustain our business. It is impossible to deny the impact on our society by Amazon & how our mindset had changed due to their new standard – free 2-days shipping (I am not judging. I am one of them). However, as a service provider, no matter how hard I try, I cannot beat that service (I ship the item fairly quick, but not as fast as Amazon does).

Also, in order to establish a healthy business structure, a storefront in Amazon plays a great role. So, there is fair reasons to have the Amazon storefront, and I appreciate Amazon for providing me an option to survive. From here, it is more like a “business topic”, so please skip until the next paragraph if you do not wish to read this. The paragraphs with Italic Style are about the business (a bit of peek).

In order to have the better purchase price (wholesale price) from the manufacture, the quantity is(was) important until we establish the trust each other. Therefore, when I had a change, I purchased a lot of skeins of thread. As much as I would like to make a profit, reducing the inventory was the priority for the size of my business – so small to focus on the cash-flow instead of the actual profit-loss point. Amazon.com, where I did not need to spend much time in fulfilling the order, was a great solution for me to make it happen. Therefore,

In Amazon, a customer will get the same product as I offer on the official store. However, the customer will not receive the same attention from me for picking & packaging the item. Please choose what is more important for you – either 2-days free shipping or caring packages with praying for you to enjoy Sashiko from me. Please do not get me wrong. It is not about which is good or bad. It is all about the needs & choice. I enjoy Amazon & therefore I offer the choices from there. If you do not mind waiting extra day or so, I will be the one who make the package with the most sincere care I can think of.

Priority Support for your Sashiko

Sashiko is getting very popular in the world. I receive many questions & requests for my opinion & support for Sashiko. As much as I would like to answer/reply all of them, I am alone here as a normal human being. I cannot answer all of the questions I receive.

So, here is the priority for the support for your Sashiko.

(1) In-person Workshop graduate & Online Sashiko Class Students > (2) Customers via the Official Web Store = (3) Etsy Customer.

I will try my best to answer the questions & requests from our Sashiko friends (I consider students & customers as friends) in the category of (1)~(3) in a few business day.

Then, the priority continues as follow:

(1)~(3) > (4) Customer with leaving the review on Amazon > (5) Regular Amazon Customer > (6) Anyone else.

In principal, I will try my best to answer any questions from anyone. However, please understand that the people in the category of (5) and (6) may not receive a reply from me. I will prioritize the customer who left their generous review on Amazon to answer the questions, so it would be great if you could leave the review there. Please be advised. Since I use the Amazon Fulfillment Center to complete the order, any issue with the order will be resolved via Amazon Customer Service.

Again, I will try my best to answer all of the questions I receive. If you have a specific question that you would need to have my answer, please try to join the Online Sashiko Class. I will reply the email within a day or so (sometimes within 30 minutes).

Your review means a lot to sustain our business

As a small business owner, reviews from customers (friends) are very critical in our business operation. Although I will not be an apple-polisher to get the great review, I sincerely appreciate the review on your experience in the products/service.

I am not an easy person on SNS – where anyone can say anything. I get pretty aggressive to those who does not respect the Japanese culture (I assume all of my customers/friends are somewhat interested in Sashiko). However, as long as a person is caring & respectful what we do, I will try my very best to be a supportive, nice, and encouraging one to navigate you to your own Sashiko.

Thank you very much for your time, in advance.

Sashiko Thread Update 2020

Sashiko Thread Update 2020 | The best for Sashiko

atsushijp Leave a comment

One of the most frequent question I receive is about the thread. “Do we have to use the specific thread for Sashiko?” and “What is the difference between Sashiko thread and other regular threads?” are 2 most popular questions that I encounter very often. I have already answered these questions on this website, and I will introduce the link at the end of this article. Long Story short, the Thread Does Matter. Using the appropriate Sashiko thread makes a significant difference. This is a Sashiko Thread Update 2020, the best thread for the Sashiko Stitching.

Sashiko Thread Update 2020

As of March 2020, we offer 3 kinds of Sashiko threads.

  1. Our favorite & most trusted Sashiko Thread – CRN Sashiko Thread
  2. Similar thread to (1). Experimented in 2017~2018 – White & Pastel Collection
  3. New Thread experimented in 2019 – Yokota

In order to make sure that the Sashiko thread we offer satisfy the need of our tradition, techniques & stories, I make myself try to use the thread for more than a year or so – with stitching & using.

CRN Sashiko Thread

All time our favorite. This is the best Sashiko thread we recommend all the time. We also use the thread from the same manufacture to create the Natural Dye, Indigo Dye, Kakishibu Dye, and other Natural Dye collection we offer (Such as Murazome Collection and Fall Deer Collection).

If you wonder what to get, this is the thread I recommend.

*I occasionally receive a comment saying that the technique I share on Youtube does not “work”. Often, those who experience the difficulty in learning Sashiko are not using this thread. I can follow up better when you use this thread for your Sashiko stitching.

Whilte & Pastel Collection

CRN Sashiko thread is manufactured by a small thread manufacture (very strict artisan) in Japan. Due to their capacity, we often experience the shortage of supply. Good things takes time to get in hands.

At the same time, I wanted to keep offering a good Sashiko thread to keep encouraging our Sashiko friends. In 2018, I invested a lot to try many kinds of Sashiko thread. This thread is one of those I felt “very similar” to the CRN Sashiko thread. After using the W&P collection for over a year, I came to conclusion that the difference is so subtle that it is “almost the same” thread. W&P Collection have a very unique color offer, which is more “artistic (colorful)”.

The colors are not tradition much, but I believe it is a good addition to enjoy the Sashiko.

Yokota Sashiko Thread

Sashiko is popular all over the world. Our recommendation is easily accessible for those who live in the U.S. since we will take care of the shipping very carefully & speedy. Although I offer the International Shipping, it can be challenging to get the thread we recommend depends where you live.

… I do not like the restriction. I want everyone to enjoy Sashiko regardless where they live. I hope you would be able to order the thread we recommend internationally, but it can be expensive & challenging.

So, I decided to try the thread from a big thread manufacture, Yokota Thread. After using their thread for a year or so, I came to a conclusion that they are very good thread. Please check the article about their thread.

About Yokota Sashiko Thread (Wait for an update)

*The Yokota Thread is available in many countries through many market places. It will be very helpful to purchase from us (Upcycle Stitches) when you have a choice. Your careful choice help me to invest more in searching & testing the better thread for the Sashiko.

What is the best Sashiko thread?

CRN Sashiko Thread and W&P Collection are very similar to each other. In order to tell a difference, one has to stitch quite a lot. Otherwise, the difference is so subtle that one will not realize. Plus, there is no better or worse. They are both good. It is depends on the preference of color & availability.

Yokota Sashiko thread is as good as the other 2 Sashiko thread. They are just different & comes in a smaller skeins & different thickness. The “Thick” option is thinner than CRN and W&P Collection.

Stitching Sample for our Sashiko thread

The photo above is my Sashiko stitching samples for each Sashiko thread with the same Asano-ha pattern.

Thread Does Matter

There are many more good Sashiko thread. However, I only recommend the thread, and offer them only after I use them heavily. I would like to make sure that I am offering something I enjoy using/stitching.

Again, the thread (Sashiko Thread) I did not mention here may be a good thread. It is the matter of preference after all. However, choosing the “appropriate Sashiko thread based on 30+ years of expertise” will enrich your Sashiko experience.

Reference on Sashiko Thread Update 2020

Why Sashiko Thread | Compare to the other
Sashiko Thread Spring 2019 | Update
Sashiko FaceMask Kit

Sashiko FaceMask Kit | Make it by yourself

atsushijp Leave a comment

I introduced some of Sashiko Stitched Facemask on Instagram. I appreciate many admiration on comments. At the same time, I receive quite many inquiries if the Sashiko FaceMask is for sale. Since I am a caregiver to my daughter & Sashiko FaceMask takes many hours to complete, I am not thinking to offer a Sashiko Face mask for sale as of April 2020. Instead, I made a “Sashiko FaceMask Kit” so that you can make it by yourself with enjoying Sashiko. Although the kit doesn’t include the written instruction, a whole Live-Streaming of me making the Sashiko mask is available as a Youtube Video, and I will follow-up the request on this article as much as I can, including some “hows” videos & information.

It would be great if you could enjoy a process of Sashiko, and then enjoy the result of Sashiko FaceMask Kit in this crisis.

Purchase the Kit

Disclaimer:

The mask you may make out of this set is NOT a solution for the medical purpose. The Sashiko stitching itself may be an unnecessary process in terms of “filtering” the virus perspective.

Please understand that the set is for ENJOYING SASHIKO while making something to cover your mouth. If you are in need of protecting yourself from virus, please get the N95 or other appropriate equipment.

Sashiko FaceMask Kit description

Full-set includes everything you need to make Sashiko FaceMask with enjoying Sashiko. Basic Set will deliver the fabrics that I used to make the Sashiko mask. The detail is available on the product page, and please make sure to read before your purchase.

Full Set includes:

  • 1. Outside Fabric // Indigo Dye Cotton 100% Fabric (About 9″ x 10.5″) – the best fabric for enjoying Sashiko
  • 2. Inside Fabric // Cotton 100% Poplin Fabric (About 9″ x 10.5″) – very smooth touch
  • 3. Gauze fabric for the insert // cotton 100% (About 9″ x 13″) – the purpose of this insert is to retain some moisture to protect mask being wet in short period of time. You may use this fabric as a washable & removable filter (Not the medical filter).
  • 4. Pattern Paper for Mask Shape (On Card Stock 110 index) – *please adjust the size. The mask is “adult” size
  • 5. Elastic Band // 1/4 wide, about ~30″ length
  • 6. A Sashiko Thread (Our regular & favorite) // $13.50 value on Etsy // Color of your choice from 15 colors (if no specification, the bright white will be picked)
  • 7. A set of thimble & needles // $14.50 value on Etsy
  • 8. Thread bobbin paper
  • 9. Chalk Pencil

*Basic Set includes (1) to (5)

*Full Set comes with Free US Domestic Shipping

Follow Up Information for Sashiko FaceMask Kit

Please find a list of information here for the follow-up. I rushed to offer the kit before preparing the tutorials. I will try my best to keep up with a request from those who purchase the kits (Please contact me with the order number.)

Tips:

  • An example of how to proceed.
    1. Prepare the pattern first on the back side of fabric (We traditionally fold fabric inside front. So, outside is the backside.
    2. Enjoy Sashiko stitching.
    3. (This process can be skipped for Sashiko Mask) Soak the fabric into the water and dry it (avoid tumble dry for this step).
    4. Cut the fabric as the Mask Pattern.
    5. Sew the mask up.
    6. Wash it before you use it & follow the sanitizing procedure.
    7. After several washes and drying, it should be fine to be washed in a washing machine & tumble dry. At least, that’s what I do.

Sashiko Youtube Videos

Useful Information on article

Last Update: April 20th, 2020

Purchase the Kit

Sashiko Order in Covid-19

Shipping Update | Sashiko Order in Covid-19 pandemic

atsushijp Leave a comment

The novel coronavirus pandemic has caused many countries to take necessary measures in global/international shipping. We, as Upcycle Stitches, are operating the international shipping following to the necessary procedure as well. If you are ordering to the non-U.S. shipping address, please take a look at this article, and understand what is the availability for now. This is our shipping procedure update for a Sashiko order in Covid-19 Pandemic.

[Update: May 21st, 2020]

Please note that all of the shipping, including the domestic shipping & especially the international shipping (regardless of the origin of shipping) are experiencing delay. Please check the tracking numbers for more information once the package has been shipped out.

Sashiko Order in Covid-19

Regardless of whereabout the shipping address, your order will be processed as quickly and carefully as usual. Before April 2020, we usually ship within 1 business day (if an order placed before 9 am, in the same day). We try our best to match this speed. However, since Atsushi is only the one who prepares the package, the shipment can be delayed by a few business days due to the school shutdown.

If the order is made for the U.S. domestic shipping address, it should be arrived as normal. I will keep updating the information with following the USPS measures.

If the order is made for the Non U.S. international shipping address, please read the description below.

International Shipping with USPS

To make sure either USPS makes a delivery to your country, please check their recent announcement here.

https://about.usps.com/newsroom/service-alerts/international/welcome.htm

We continue offering the International Shipping where the USPS offer the delivery to. We were offering the International Shipping from Japan with using the Japan Post for the appropriate country before April 2020. However, due to the Japan Post’s latest update (Temporary suspension of acceptance and delivery delays of mail items destined to various countries/territories), we will most likely to make the all International shipping from the U.S.

It may take extra time to complete the delivery due to this update. I do not have enough experience of “how long” it may take to complete the international shipping with USPS, especially if you are making the order from the Australia, New Zealand, and other Asian countries.

Also, USPS requires the phone number of recipient regardless of the destination. Please make sure to list your phone number in appropriate style, with starting the country code. For example, for the U.S., it has to be +1 (000) 000-0000. The international order without the phone number may be ceased until we hear from you.

International Shipping from Japan

Depending on the item you order, the shipment from Japan may be required. In order to make a shipment from Japan, the package has to be upgraded to the Express Mail (EMS). Depending on the order amount, we will offer the free upgrade. If the order is too small, we may contact you for the possible options such as delaying the shipment until the Japan post resume its operation.

【Update: April 24th】

Japan Post announced a temporary suspension of acceptance and delivery delays of mail items destined to various countries/territories. If you are considering a purchase of our product to delivered to the countries below, we will do our best to make a shipment from the U.S. with USPS international first-class mail. It can take a long time to complete the shipping depends on the items you would like to purchase. Please contact us first if you are making a big order (Please expect a delay in response, as well. I apologize any inconvenience in advance).

Check the List of Countries (PDF)

Even the countries not on the list, there may be a need for the specific attention. After placing the order, please check the email from Atsushi (sashikoatsushi●gmail.com).

We are here for your Sashiko needs

We will continue offering our best service for your Sashiko needs. It is our promise to deliver the package no matter what – even if the package is lost, we will try our best to find it and/or redeliver it. (Please check the past case of lost package over International Shipping).

Also, we will be sincere and honest to the situation. If the order cannot be completed, we will of course refund the money you paid.

We sincerely appreciate your time to read this article, and willing to support the small family business in this crisis.

Sashiko in COVID-10 Crisis

What I can do for Sashiko in COVID-19 Crisis

atsushijp 2 Comments

It is quite sad, frustrated, and scary to experience the pandemic in today’s society. Following the necessary precautions such as “Washing Hands”, “Staying at Home”, and “Keeping Social Distance” are what we can do to contribute to the settle down. Please be careful, mindful, and attentive. Your choice can better off the society. While I am staying in the house with my family more than ever, I also wonder what I can do for Sashiko in COVID-19 crisis. Sashiko itself is not essential to survive. However, I believe Sashiko (and other hand-crafting & art) will be very essential in a long term. First things first. Please take care of your fundamental needs. After we secure the basic needs of food, shelter, finance & safety, we as human beings would need a practice like Sashiko. In fact, I receive many feedback that my friends can go through the stressful quarantine thanks to the hand-stitching & Sashiko. More than ever, Sashiko may be essential for us. It is my commitment to pass down the culture of Sashiko. Here is what I can do for Sashiko in COVID-19 Crisis.

【Update on June 30th, 2020】

The Special Offer has ended as announced on June 30th, 2020. The situation remain the same, but we would like to prepare for the new normal. Thank you very much for your support & understanding.

This article summarize our Sashiko offers/deals during the pandemic outbreak. For the quick reference, please check the list below. For the detail, please scroll down.

  • Learn Sashiko Online with Special Store Credit (Ended).
  • Refresh your Sashiko Learning (for free) *(Ended)
  • Special Sashiko Bag with Thread & Fabric *(Continued)
  • Zoom Sashiko Gathering *(Planning)
  • Reminder of Shipping Free Coupon (Continued)

*This article is a summary of Newsletter on 3/26

*This (*) mark requires the prerequisite of Sashiko Workshop/Online Class.

*Some of the special offers/deals will be ending at the end of June 2020 with accepting the state of PA moving its phase to “Green”, which is a process to reopen. Thank you for your interest! (Update on 6/15)

Sashiko in COVID-19 Crisis

Sashiko does not require any social interaction. As I have been keep saying, Sashiko can be quite “lonely” (although I do not want you to feel lonely all the time. You may feel lonely, but I will always support the Sashiko journey of my friends). For that matter, Sashiko can be a great activity to practice/learn during this quarantine time. After a careful consideration, I decided to offer the special deals.

Learn Sashiko Online & Get $110.00 of Store Credit

This Deal is Ended. Thank you.

This is the special deal offering $110.00 store credit for anyone who sign-up for the Online Sashiko Class. You can start learning the Sashiko right after the registration (after my email & package arrival). With applying the $110.00 store credit to the special bag I made for the Stay-Home special (which I explain below), it is almost 40% discount in retail values.

I often get the same question. “How can you make stitches so even?” The answer is simple: “Do not try to make them even.” The Online Sashiko Class introduce “how” to do it like Atsushi does in his live streaming. Many gave me the feedback as the “eye-opening” experience and “an opportunity to learn the new technique”. Please consider taking the Sashiko Online Class when you may have some time in your house.

*For the detail, please read the blog article. Some restriction applies for the usage of Store Credit based on your shipping address. The $110.00 credit is available to the previous students who paid full amount for the Online Sashiko Class in 2019/2020 (Not for those who used the discount code.)

Refresh Your Sashiko Learning (for free)

This Deal is Ended. Thank you.

I would like you to continue the Sashiko stitching after your workshop/Online Class experience. To encourage you to enjoy Sashiko stitching in this time, I decided to offer the Online Sashiko Videos (the videos I use for the Online Sashiko Class) for free of charge to anyone who previously took Atsushi’s Sashiko Workshop (more than 3 hours length – title may include “Core & Basic”) in NY, NJ, PA, and TX. (I was preparing it & wondering how much I should ask for…)

If you are interested in refreshing your learning with the online videos, please contact me with email address you registered for the workshop. All of the workshop participants should have received the follow-up email from me after the In-Person workshop with presentation slides. Based on the email address, I will figure out if you have taken the workshop in the past.

  • This offer is eligible to individuals who took the full-length (more than 3 hours) Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic). Unfortunately, the workshop with short-version (such as in Japan Society) & other Atsushi’s previous workshops (such as Denim Sashiko & Boro mending workshops I offered before 2018) are not eligible to this offer. This is because I would like to be fair with everyone. Please forgive me this exclusion. The Online Sashiko Class (Videos) covers the same contents as the in-person workshop (Core & Basic).
  • For those who took other workshop offered by Atsushi above (like Sashiko Mending Workshop), I am happy to offer the 40% off coupons. You may choose either the 40% Off coupon or the Stay-Home Special above. If you would like to get the 40% Off, please send me an email with your email address that you had previously participated in any of Atsushi’s Sashiko workshops.
  • Per your request, I will send you the videos & password. Please respect the copyright & please do not share the information with others. It is exclusive for the graduates of Atsushi’s workshop.
  • This offer is free of charge. (Any contribution is appreciated!)
  • I will support your Sashiko learning as much as I can. However, please understand that this is not a lecture. You will watch the videos & you can refresh your memory. Also, please understand that the priority goes to the people who is currently learning the Sashiko Online. This is an offer to refresh your learning!\
  • The same Sashiko Supply kit that you used in the workshop is available for purchase, if you would like to do the same workshop again over the Internet. The pricing is $65.00 + shipping. I will try to make a link, but meanwhile, please contact me if you would like to purchase the kit.

Special Sashiko Bag with Thread & Fabric

It is my hope that you keep stitching after the Online Class with stitching in different project continuously. This is a bag of threads and fabric to keep you busy in Sashiko for several weeks/months. This bag is available for only the Sashiko Workshop/Online Class graduates.

Zoom Sashiko Gathering

As I mentioned above, Sashiko can be quite a lonely work/stitching. However, I always want you to feel that someone is stitching somewhere in the world with sharing the same “Care”. It is my ultimate goal to pass down the Sashiko – to create a community where everyone can feel safe & validated.

I am planning to offer a free Zoom Sashiko Gathering online. In order to be fair with everyone & to allow me to talk about “Anything”, I plan to limit the participants to the graduates of Sashiko Workshop (Core & Basic) & Online Sashiko Class. I apologize for this exclusion in advance. As much as I would like to be inclusive, I also would like to be fair & protective to the current existing group. Thank you for your understanding. Please consider joining the Online Sashiko Class. I believe it will be a good learning experience especially if you would like to continue Sashiko for a long time.

Just a reminder of Shipping Free Coupon on our store

I may add some more miscellaneous offers here and there. However, the main offers for “What I can do for Sashiko in COVID-19 Crisis” is above. I plan to make a mailing list for the “Zoom gathering”, and anyone in the list will get the latest updates for the offers.

Just a reminder. Everyone with the US Shipping address is qualified for the Shipping Free Coupon for the order of $75.00 with the coupon Code: FREEUPCYCLE75+

If your shipping address is outside of the US, please proceed the order & contact me (or write the coupon in the check out page) so I can adjust the shipping fees for your destination (It will be about $3.00 to $8.00 shipping fee adjustment).

Stay Home. Wash Hands. Keep Social Distance. Then, enjoy Sashiko!

Handmade Mask Pattern

Handmade Mask Pattern | From Sashiko Artisan

atsushijp 2 Comments

It is so unfortunate and sad that we have to go through the crisis of COVID-19. We can beat this. I am a big advocate of “mindfulness” and stop being “quick”, it is a case that I wanted to act as quick as I could. I received many comments & messages after introducing a handmade mask for my daughter. This is another element I did not realize what I can do can be someone’s help. Please download the Handmade Mask Pattern below. However, please read some of the notes before jumping into a project.

Handmade Mask Pattern (Quick)

I just hand-written the pattern & took a photo to make a downloadable PDF. The scanned document would be much better in precision, but I do not have a scanner… so, this is as accurate as it can get now. Please adjust the size & pattern as you need. This is not a project to make a “perfect mask”. It is a care of making something to cover our mouth & nose from touching so much.

Download Handmade Mask Pattern (Google Drive)

Video Update (3/21)

To explain the making process better, I had the live streaming. I will edit the video later, but it is already a useful information.

NOTE (Updated 3/19)

  • The size is for 5~7 years old. I wanted to make a big mask for my 5 years old daughter so she can cover the whole mouth and nose.
  • Please choose the fabric carefully. It has to be “breathable”.
  • You can download it free of charge. I will keep updating as much as I can. Please refer our website or Instagram account (Sashi.Co and/or Upcycle Stitches) when you share.
  • This is NOT a perfect pattern – so please no complaints. Revise & improvise as you wish.

How to make a handmade mask Instruction (Quick-version)

The instruction is even worse. lol. I do not have time to film my making process. I do not have quiet time to use photoshop & write down the instruction. So, I summarized the basic instruction in my 5-years old daughter’s crafting time this morning.

If you have a basic sewing skill, it is not difficult at all. A sewing machine will increase the speed, but I believe we can make it with hand-stitching. If you don’t have a basic sewing skill, it is a great time to learn one.

Again, this is very rough instruction. I will try to make one tutorial when I have more time, but until then, please try to improvise it. Enjoy the process, and enjoy even a mistake.

Download Handmade Mask instruction

Instruction (Typed Up) – Update 3/19

Instruction of Handmade Mask Pattern Above,

  1. Cut the fabric with the adjusted pattern. Layer 2 fabrics inside-out. You need to prepare 2 sets of this for front and back of the mask. Front one may need extra fabric to make a tube for elastic band (The shaded part on the pattern). Stitch the dot-line.
  2. Open the fabric & iron the center seam. It may be a good idea to cut a bit of piece of seam so it is easy to open up. Do both of front & back part.
  3. Layer the front & back of the mask Inside-out, then put some soft fabric to obtain the moisture from the mouth. I used a “gauze” cotton fabric (Sarashi). Stitch the dot line, then flip the mask.
  4. Stitch the sides to make tubes for the elastic bands.

*Inside Out means facing the front side of the fabric each other when stitching. In Japanese, it is called “中表”.

*Dot Line (- – – – – -) on the instruction is there you stitch.

I know it is not the best instruction or tutorial. I will keep updating, and one day my daughter get back to school, I will prepare the video for the future pandemic (I don’t know when, but I will prepare more).

Alright. I hope this will encourage people in the US/Europe to wear the mask. We cannot get a medical mask from the store. This mask is NOT for the medical solution at all (The mask will not filter the virus). However, it can give us a good time to stitch together with our children & encourage them to avoid touching their mouth and nose after touching “EVERYWHERE” & when it is difficult to keep the social distance.

Good luck & Enjoy (Sashiko) stitching & sewing 😀

Stay Home and Sashiko Cover

Stay home and Sashiko | Sashiko Online Class Special

atsushijp 8 Comments

As much as it is scary, frustrating, and sad to experience the pandemic of COVID-19, I support the Federal/State government decision to combat the virus via temporary closing some business. I understand that we live in a freedom of “opinions”. However, I believe, it is just best to stay at home and keep the appropriate social distance. Staying at home for 2 weeks or even more sounds quite scary. I would like to offer the special deal for the Sashiko Online Class special for you to utilize this time to learn & stitch Sashiko. I will do the same. I will stay home and Sashiko stitch, hopefully with my daughter.

*This special offers (Stay Home & Sashiko Special with Store Credit) has ended at the end of June 2020 with accepting the state of PA moving its phase to “Green”, which is a process to reopen. Although we “may” be able to offer another special offer in the future, the detail and timeline is unknown and unexpected. It wasn’t easy to offer something like that big – and it was a contribution I thought I could do for the world under Covid-19. Your understanding is very much appreciated.

(Update on 7/19)

Stay Home & Sashiko Special

This Special Offer ended on June 30th. Thank you very much!!

I would like to offer $110.00 store credit for a new participant of Sashiko Online Class 2020. After your registration, I will send you the coupon of $110.00 that you can use on anything in our web store (*1). You will receive exactly the same materials, lectures, and follow-up from Atsushi to learn the core & basic of Sashiko. This time, I am offering the store credit so you may be able to get more thread, fabric, and other tools to continue your stitching for your time of stay home & Sashiko.

*1 – “anything” only applies to the US shipping address. The non-US shipping address can receive the same store credit of $110.00. However, please read the note below that some of the items are not eligible to use in coupon.

Register Sashiko Online Class

[Notes]
  • To the best use of coupon, I am planning to make a special “bag” to maximize your Sashiko experience including Sashiko thread and Japanese fabric. (Update: 3/20 – I did prepare the Special Bag here.) It is similar to the “Fukubukuro” I had prepared at the beginning of 2020. It is very rare to offer the similar deal… but, I guess it is an understandable offer in such a situation.
  • This offer ends when the shutdown/pandemic ends. The store credit will be effective for 365 days from the day you receive the coupon code.
  • Before the registration, please read the article of “Sashiko Online Class” to understand what you can expect from this class & how to proceed it.
  • Anyone in the world (where USPS or Japan Post makes a shipment) is eligible for this offer. However, if you live outside of the USA, the coupon will be used in the regular thread/supplies category. Some special dye Sashiko threads, new Sashiko thread (YOKOTA) & one-of-a-kind items will be outside of the coupon since they are only stocked in the USA.
  • This offer may be altered without any further notice. However, the credit will not be more than $110.00 (You are getting the most as of now).
  • I plan to offer the “Online Sashiko Gathering” via Zoom when my daughter’s school restart. This will be available to anyone who have taken Atsushi’s workshop, either Online or In-person.

Talk to oneself, instead of reacting in fear.

I learned that we feel fear mostly by “unknown”. When I experienced the earthquake in Japan, it was very scary and sad, but I feel the different kind of fear – unknown and unpredictable.

In these cases, we tend to “react”. React to the news. React to the numbers (of positive cases & ratios). React to frustration, and then reaction ends up panic.

Please do not get me wrong. It is natural to react. However, “reacting” to the news & opinions often exhaust us more than we can carry on. In those case, “shutting down the information for a period of time” could protect us from unnecessary reacting. In order to stop reacting, Sashiko and other hand-crafting is a great way to make our hands busy & empty our brain. It is a precious way to talk to friends, family and ourselves throughout the process of making, sewing, stitching, crafting and caring, instead of reacting in fear and frustration.

I hope to share the core of Sashiko & encourage anyone to enjoy Sashiko stitching as the ordinary Japanese had practiced.

I am looking forward to meeting you online.

Atsushi Futatsuya / Sashi.Co / Upcycle Stitches