Sashiko Instruction Cover

Sashiko Instruction | Learn the best strategy

Unlike the other major Sashiko companies, we do not offer many “Sashiko Kits” for customers. We know that there is a demand for the kit, but we have been hesitant to do so for some reasons. Well, we finally come up with one in 2019. However, even we offer the Sashiko Practice Kit, we do not include a piece of paper with Sashiko Instruction written on. Here is an explanation of why we prefer not to provide the Sashiko instruction of how to proceed with a Sashiko Kit.

[Update Follow Up for Sashiko Instruction]

(Last Updated Sep.2023)

This is an peridoical update for those who purchase the Keiko’s Sashiko Kits listed Below. Thank you very much for your purchase. As this article explain, our Sashiko Set do not have the specific instruction as it will limit your learning of Sashiko. At the same time, I understand that you would like to have some samples to proceed Stitching. For that, I prepare some sample photos/videos the set, and you can find it here on the list.

Also, in 2023, I released the [Introductory Sashiko Class] on Domestika. By receiving the kit, you have most of the important tools to start enjoying the class. As it is quite reasonably priced on Domestika, it will be a good start to see what “Sashiko Sashiko” is like.

As a sign of appreciation to purchase the kit, please use the coupon below to get 10% Off.

Coupon: SASHIKOSTORY-AZU

https://www.domestika.org/en/courses/4952-introduction-to-japanese-sashiko-stitching/sashikostory

[List of Keiko’s Design Set available]


The “best” instruction is up to you

Many people think that there is “absolute answer” or “right way” in Sashiko stitching. We believe there is not. Each pattern, each project, and each material requires the different instruction of how to proceed with the stitching. The most appropriate Sashiko instruction is determined what is your preference, personality, the mood in the day of stitching, and more importantly, how you would like to communicate to the fabric.

Therefore, I would like you to come up with your own Sashiko instruction (of how to proceed the stitching) based on your preference & condition. By us providing the written instruction, it limits your possibility and creativity.

There is some instruction for basic Sashiko techniques & wisdom. Please check our Youtube Channel to find the video for your need, or simply take the Sashiko workshop to get a full package of Sashiko technique.


No rules and regulation in Sashiko

We often say that there is no rules and regulations in Sashiko. The Sashiko instruction contradicts the saying above a bit. Yes, we can recommend one of the appropriate Sashiko instruction as the sample. However, it also encourages Sashiko stitchers to give up researching or learning by watching videos or other information sources.

The Sashiko instruction could imply the rule. We don’t want that. Instead, we offer the sample video of us actually stitching. We believe it is better than the written Sashiko instruction.

Youtube video coming-up soon.


We teach how to come up with own Sashiko Instruction

Each pattern has its own appropriate Sashiko instruction. We teach how to come up with it by yourself in our Sashiko workshop (Online Class or In-person).

The reason I do not share it here is it may require the personal attention to explain throughly – otherwise, without the follow-up, it could cause the misunderstanding. The misunderstanding based on what we write & share is something we would like to avoid the most. Therefore, please consider taking the workshops for more information & follow-ups. It is quite easy, yet core in Sashiko stitching.


Why kit? Your possibility is infinite

Keiko & I occasionally discuss why the market demands the Sashiko kits so much. We believe that it is much more enjoyable when the person can stitch what they would like to have on their every project instead of the kit pattern someone decides for you.

It isn’t difficult to transfer the pattern at all. We have a Youtube Video of how to transfer the pattern on the fabric (It is Youtube. It is free of charge). We even offer some videos of how to drew the Japanese geometric patterns directly with using chalk pen and rulers. We still do not understand why kits have so much popularity.

By learning the basic of a simple technique, the possibility in Sashiko projects can be infinite. I hope you will get the “technique and wisdom” instead of “a written direction made by someone”

[After note]

It is kind of strange to encourage the market to “not to purchase the practice kit” even though we also have an article of advertising the new releasing Sashiko Practice Kit. Well, the Sashiko practice kit is a good value set for anyone who would like to enjoy Sashiko stitching, especially those who already took the Sashiko workshop. I just wanted to explain the background of the reasons why we do not offer written instruction. It isn’t about us being mean or secretive. It is about the message we would like to pass down in Sashiko stitching.

Sashiko Needle Eye

Sashiko Needle Eye | Reason of the best needle

A good needle for Sashiko can make a significant difference in Sashiko stitching. One of the factors we need to be attentive is the size of Sashiko Needle Eye. There is a reason why we use only 2 kinds of needles (Both the same length, a slightly different Sashiko Needle Eye size, and from different manufacture). Even for a minor topic like this, Sashiko Needle Eye, we have a lot to share. Apart from sewing, participating in other activities such as playing 벳엔드 can present an exhilarating and pleasurable pastime, creating an energetic counterbalance to the calmness of needlework. This injects excitement and amusement into free time, broadening the range of recreational pursuits.


I received an honest feedback from a customer:

“I expected the ‘big eye’ needle to have a larger eye than the first ones I ordered, so I am disappointed with those”

I feel sorry when I hear that the customer experience the disappointment. For this case, it happened because I didn’t explain (or clarify) well enough on the product page the reason why we have the needle with the small eye.

Sashiko Needle Eye Customer Feedback

Sashiko Needle to do Sashiko

The fundamental purpose of Sashiko is(was) to repair, mend, and strengthening the fabric. Over time, the Japanese enjoyed Sashiko for the decorative purpose, but they also practiced Sashiko for the purpose of making the fabric “better” – thicker, warmer, and stronger.

A needle with a large eye will reduce the stress of threading the needle. However, the bigger the size of thread is, the more risk we have in damaging the fabric. The impact to the fabric may be insignificant for a few times, but over time, Sashiko could damage the fabric instead of making it better. It may not be significant when we work on the strong fabric, like the new fabric. However, when we work on the vintage fabric, the size of Sashiko Needle Eye can be critical.

Therefore, the Sashiko Needle eye has to be as similar thickness as possible to the body, as straight as possible from the tip to the end.


To ordinary for me to explain.

Since we have been using the Sashiko needle for more than a couple of decades, we don’t have much trouble of threading the needle. It was too ordinary for me to mention about the necessity of the size of Sashiko needle eye until I get the feedback. When I wrote the article about the Sashiko needle we use, I didn’t emphasis enough to educate our customers (I mentioned about the importance of the Sashiko needle eye, of course.)


Sashiko Needle Recommendation

We recommend two very similar Sashiko needle from 2 different manufactures. One is offered from Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya, and another is from Tulip Needle. Both of them are in super high quality. I don’t think I can do Sashiko with other needles. Although the both Sashiko needle eye are small in comparison to the other needle in the market, the majority of Sashiko thread (All of the Sashiko thread we offer) can be threaded smoothly. It may require some experience and technique, but it is doable. I mean, I thread the needle every day & in every live streaming, so you can do it.

Sashiko Needle Eye Close

*It is perfectly fine to use a threader, of course.


The Sashiko needle Atsushi uses

I personally prefer this needle. So, when you see the needle on my Live streaming or other video on Youtube, this is the needle on the picture.

A super sharp needle tip with the flexible body with 51.5 mm length is the must-have item for our Sashiko projects.


Big Eye Straight from Tulip Needle

Another great, supreme quality needle is manufactured by the long-established needle company, called Tulip. To serve the purpose of “the Sashiko needle eye as the similar thickness as the needle body”, this is the best needle.

Please find the details in the separate article.

Although it says “Big Eye”, the difference of the Sashiko Needle Eye between these 2 kinds are very insignificant. This is because we needed to keep the needle size as 51.5 mm as well as as similar thickness as through the main to the end of the needle.

I imagine, the Tulip company named the needle, “Big Eye Straight” in comparison to the other needle they manufacture. This is a part of explanation I didn’t clarify enough. It is not “Big Eye” in comparison among our product selection.


No needle is wrong

Above said, you can use any needle you prefer. We just use the needle we enjoy the most & for the best possible outcome.

We have a good proverb for a master and his tool.

弘法は筆を選ばない | Kobo ha Fude wo Erabanai = A good workman does not blame his tools. It is true statement, but if a good workman has a choise of getting his favorite tool, I believe he would choose the one he enjoy the most.

What we share is merely our preference & selection based on our experience & wisdom. Please do not take as a “rule” or something you need to follow enjoy Sashiko.


However… a good needle will change your Sashiko experience, and you may never return to the other needles for your Sashiko project… Enjoy Sashiko!

Muban Sashiko Thread

Muban Sashiko Thread | Once in a life-time Color

This is a story how we come up with the offer of No-numbered, Muban Sashiko Thread, to provide the color which could be once in a lifetime. In 2018, we started providing the No-numbered, Muban Sashiko Thread deal online. Also, very unique uneven colors derived from the concept of Muban Sashiko Thread.

 

“A failure” to be the product

Since we dye our thread with Natural Dye by hands, a very small amount per dye pot, we often end up with creating the color we didn’t expect. We have created about 30 colors of Natural Dye Sashiko Thread. While some of the colors got discontinued, many beautiful colors remain as regular items with specific numbers.

 

We can make a suggestion based on the customer’s preference. Let’s say If you would like to get beautiful pink, #013, #014 or #015 with Madders is the recommendation.

 

When we happened to create the color we didn’t anticipate or didn’t meet the quality line for the evenness of color, we label them as “a failure” and we didn’t put them online for sale. Since we make a lot of stitching, Keiko used them in her Sashiko projects, and I used them in the Sashiko Livestreaming in Instagram and Youtube.

 

One day, a viewer of the Sashiko Live streaming in Japan commented if she can get the similar thread that I was using. I explained that it is a product by accident and we do not plan to put the number on it and sell. Then, she claimed that she would like to get it anyway, even if the color is not the much the similar and uneven.

 

After I exchanged the opinions about what is “failure” and “success”, I learned that the uneven and not-reproducible color can be in someone’s best interest. This is how a failure became the Color of Miracle Green.

 

 

Indigo Dye Sashiko Thread Cover

 

 

No Numbered | Muban Sashiko Thread

 

Although we are getting much better in dyeing, we have made some “uneven” colors and unexpected colors.

The color can be any similar color to the 30 colors, 2 indigo Colors, and 4 Persimmon Tannin Colors. Since it is very difficult to control the inventory (only one color available for each “mistake = success = unevenness”. I will pick the 3 skeins (or 5 skeins) of No Numbered Muban Sashiko Thread for you.

For those who would like to know what kind of colors you can expect, I made 4 packages of 3 skeins of thread. When you order the pre-packaged No numbered Sashiko thread, it will tell you which color of thread you will get.

 

Enjoy the beauty by accident.

Whenever we make an unexpected color, we examine why it happened to make it better next time. However, the reason for the result can be varied by a lot. The humidity, the temperature, the water quality, Sun-light strength, pretty much every environmental difference can make the different color. Keiko is now good enough to create the similar colors regarding the environment, but she still makes some uneven and unexpected colors since she dyes them by her hands.

 

This Muban Sashiko Thread has been the best selling item in Japan. I am very happy to carry some of Keiko’s “failure”. The colors are beautiful.

 

 

Boro Inspired Cover

Sashiko Swatches Collection 5th | #50 Boro Inspired

Here is our 5th Collection of Sashiko Swatches for sale. Memorable #50 are so-called “Boro Inspired” Sashiko stitched Fabric. They are listed on our Etsy Store. Thanks to those who purchased our beautiful, one of a kind, sashiko swatches, we can continue introducing the more Sashiko fabrics.

Every swatch is hand-stitched, of course. We respect a story in the Japanese farmer’s history, “soybeans – patchwork” and appreciated very small Japanese fabrics. Enjoy the beauty of patchworking with Boro Inspired concept. 

 

*A series of introducing our Sashiko swatches has consisted of many articles on this website. 

 

Sashiko Swatches Collection 5th | Boro Inspired

 

#50-A | Authentic fabric hand-stitched to be Boro

28″ x 9″ | 45 gram

 

Boro Inspired A

 

Boro Inspired A2

 

 

#50-B | Authentic fabric hand-stitched to be Boro

 

24″ x 10.5″ | 48 gram

 

Boro Inspired B1

 

Boro Inspired B2

 

 

#50-C | Authentic fabric hand-stitched to be Boro

 

28″ x 6.5″ | 40 gram

Boro Inspired C1

 

Boro Inspired C2

 

 

What does “Boro Inspired” mean?

Ultimately speaking, I would say that Boro Inspired fabric is “to be Boro” fabric.

There is not a significant line that we distinguish which is Boro or Not. However, in our understanding, Boro is the result of “repetitive Sashiko mending & stitching.” The single patchworking doesn’t make the fabric Boro. However, any kinds of patchworking and mending projects with respecting the concept of “Mottainai” and appreciating the fabric, we respect it.

 

It is just for us to distinguish what we make.

One is Boro Inspired beautiful sashiko swatch, and the one is Boro we would like to recreate after continuous stitching.

Boro Inspired Sample
A Sample of Boro Inspired Fabric. Patchworking with vintage Japanese fabric

Boro Sample
A Sample of Boro we revived. Check the repetitive of Sashiko to form the fabric.

 

 

A note from Etsy Description for Boro Inspired Fabric

Each of the Boro Inspired fabric is all hand-stitched and patched small fabrics here and there. It is not “quite” Boro yet by our standards, but it is absolutely beautiful and “one-of-a-kind” Sashiko swatches. They can be used as is, or to your Sashiko project. The edge is not trimmed. However, it can be used for the placemat when the friction isn’t that significant. 

In a process of making Sashiko items, we collect many small swatches that we cannot even provide as the swatch. I would not prefer to list a fabric of 2-inch square. We do not throw away the beautiful fabric even if it is small. Our goal is to follow the Japanese mindset that a story tells us.

 

 

 

 

 

Sashiko Cushion Cover Boro and Traditional

Sashiko Cushion Cover Collection 2018

Upcycle Stitches LLC and Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya are happy to announce the release of new Sashiko item collection. We have been creating many Sashiko items in the past. After a few years of the blank period, we introduce Sashiko Cushion Cover Collection 2018. We designed the cushion based on our experience living in the U.S. and Japan. We believe the cushions will fit many households as a unique and exclusive decor.

[Updated: October 2019]

Sashiko Cushion Cover Collection 2018

Special Price for Sashiko Cushion Cover on Etsy

This is our first Sashiko product line-up released by Upcycle Stitches. We sincerely wish that we have a storefront so customers can come and visit us to “feel” the authentic Sashiko items. We will save some money and hopefully the dream will come true soon. Meanwhile, we list them on Etsy store with Special Price for the limited time period.

I hope you can find Sashiko Cushion Cover which matches your home!

Enjoy them some of the stores in NYC

or

Sashiko Cushion Cover Collection 2018 | Spring

Sashiko Cushion Cover Boro and Traditional

Boro-Inspired Cushion Cover

Size: 12″ x 12″ | 31cm x 31 cm

Material: Japanese Vintage Fabric

Price: $145.00


Boro gets so popular recently for its authentic looking.

It is very challenging to make Boro Cushion Cover since (1) Boro fabric is difficult to get and make it into large enough piece, (2) Boro is too fragile to use as cushion (Decor possible / very weak to friction.)

Instead making Boro Cushion cover, we decided to make the Boro-inspired Cushion cover. The cushion cover has boro like looking and strengthened by Sashiko stitching. All Japanese vintage fabric, and no similar product will be made. Every pieces are one-of-a-kind item.

#005C means front side of Cushion Cover #005.

#005CB means back side of Cushion COver #005.

Japanese Vintage Fabric | Cotton 100% | insert cushion from a side zipper

5CB Sashiko Cushion Boro-Inspired
6B Sashiko Cushion Boro-Inspired 6CB Sashiko Cushion Boro-Inspired
7B Sashiko Cushion Boro-Inspired 7CB Sashiko Cushion Boro-Inspired
8B Sashiko Cushion Boro-Inspired 8CB Sashiko Cushion Boro-Inspired

Traditional & Authentic Cushion Cover

Size: 12″ x 12″ | 31cm x 31 cm

Material: Indigo Dye Fabric Cotton 100%

Price: $120.00


Hand-stitched Sashiko Cushion Cover with the Japanese traditional geometric patter, Higaki, makes the Sashiko cushion very authentic. The fine stitches made by hands on beautiful indigo fabric will be a beautiful accent in your home decor.

#001C means front side of Cushion Cover #001.

#001CB means back side of Cushion COver #001.

Indigo Dye Fabric | Cotton 100% | insert cushion from a side zipper

1C Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover 1BC Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover
2C Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover 2BC Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover
3C Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover 3CB Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover
4C Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover 4CB Traditional Sashiko Cushion Cover

Takara Unique Design Cushion Cover

Size: 18″ x 18″ | 46 cm x 46 cm

Material: Indigo Dye Fabric Cotton 100%

Price: $178.00


Takara Cushion Cover

Sashiko is not all about geometric pattern.

There are picture-like designing, and this is our challange to make it more art-like items with Sashiko stitching.

We name this “TAKARA = Trasure in Japanese language.” We wishes all the wealth for those who purchase this cushion pillow.

Fabric is Indigo Dye fabric with cotton 100%.

Only the front side has the stitching, and the back side is plain Indigo fabric. Without zipper. The fabric overap some so you can insert the cushion there.

9 Takara Sashiko Cushion Cover 10 Takara Sashiko Cushion Cover
11 Takara Sashiko Cushion Cover 12 Takara Sashiko Cushion Cover
13 Takara Sashiko Cushion Cover 14 Takara Sashiko Cushion Cover
15 Takara Sashiko Cushion Cover

Hishi-Seikaiha Indigo Cushion Cover

Size: 24″ x 24″ | 61 cm x 61 cm.

Material: Indigo Dye Fabric Cotton 100%

Price: $250.00 (Since stitches are too small, the discount may be available).


Hishi Seikaiha Cushion Cover

The big size of 24 inch square with all hand-stitched Sashiko!

Beautiful traditional pattern, Hishi-Seikaiha, on the big fabric with patchworking 2 different shade of Indigo Dye Fabric.

Indigo Dye Fabric | Cotton 100% | insert cushion from a side zipper.

16 Hishi Seikaiha Sashiko Cushion Cover

17 Hishi Seikaiha Sashiko Cushion Cover

Sashiko Denim Repair Service and Fee

I am so pleased to receive many compliments to my jeans after performing the Sashiko Denim Repair. Although I started mending my jeans as my hobby, I decided to offer the Sashiko Denim Repair Service for ones who can share my understandings to Sashko Stitching and Sashiko’s concept. I am sorry that there are so many conditions to agree before the actual repairing order. However, please understand it is necessary because all of the services will be done by hands, and I would need to rely on customer’s common sense for the better service.

This is the new service I provide out of my routine days. Before launching this as the official service, I would like to have a sort of probation period for myself, to see if this is a satisfying service for the customers.

Outline of Sashiko Denim Repair Service

*This is the deal for Probation Period

This is a service Atsushi will repair your jeans with Sashiko stitching and Sashiko stitched fabric. (See samples of Sashiko stitched fabric).

If you are interested, please contact me first with photos of your favorite jeans with the hole(s) or tear(s) after reading this article and agreeing on the conditions. We will discuss the details, then I will send you the address to make a shipment to.

Here are some conditions.

  • I may decide the kinds of Sashiko fabric I use in the project. I will probably not take order-made Sashiko fabric for this service. However, please let me know what kind of color you would like or what kind of pattern you would like since your preference is important for us.
  • I will inform you how long it would take to get service done. It is NOT promised time frame. Please understand that it is just an estimate.
  • I set the flat service fee for the probation period. This fee includes one big hole OR several small holes repairment. You may refer my previous works and ask for the estimated fees if you want to have more.
  • Please send me the jeans AFTER washing it. I understand that some people do not wish to wash the jeans, but doing Sashiko on dirty jeans is very difficult.
  • If you prefer to have Sashiko stitching on the new jeans, it may be possible based on your request.
  • If you prefer to have the order-made Sashiko fabric to patch or have so many parts to “repair,” I will do so with the regular price. I will give you the estimate so please send me the photos.
  • Please allow me to use your project on Youtube/Instagram Live Streaming

The fee for the Sashiko Denim Repair Service (Promotional):

$180.00 ~ $350.00

The regular price will be about $500 and up, depending on the repair I would need.

The detail of Denim Repair Service

https://upcyclestitches.com/store/Customized-Sashiko-Mending-on-your-Favorite-Denim-p100856880

What is included in the fee

  • Sashiko fabric patch needed in the repair service
  • Labor fee for Atsushi
  • Shipping (Priority Mail with USPS) Fee to return to you | USA Domestic Only. Extra shipping fee will be applied to the International Order.

Qualification for the Service

  • Read and be aware of my understanding of Sashiko and Boro
  • Willingness to upload the “before/after” photos of the service on your blog, SNS or Instagram with referring this description page and account.
  • Permission for me to write about your order & work on your project on Live Streaming.
  • Promise that you wear the jeans I serviced continuously. I believe Sashiko shines the most in the daily usage.

A sample of my results with Sashiko Denim Repair Service

I will keep adding my results and orders from customers. It would be nice that someone in the world is wearing what I stitch & mend.

We offer the service based on my achievements. Please check the service and purchase it, or contact me for more detail.

Shop: Customized Sashiko Mending on your Denim

*Estimates is based on the jeans I worked on.

It may vary depends on your preferences. I am happy to discuss your needs.

Sashiko Mending Custom

Atsushi will custom mend your Denim or your favorite cloth.

Fee Estimate:

1 leg 1 front (part or a hole): $350.00 ~

1 leg both side or 2 legs one side: 550.00 ~

Entire Jeans: $990.00 ~

Unlimited Mending until your satisfy: $1,200.00 ~

Including materials and labor.

 

Sashiko Stitching Custom

Sashiko has another purpose of strengthening the fabric. By me stitching directly onto your jeans, the fabric will be stronger and more durable.

All stitching is done by hand.

As of now, Asano-ha & Shippou Patterns are available.

Fee Estimate: 

Asano-ha Pattern 

1 leg 1 side: $300.00 ~

1 leg both side: $550.00 ~

Entire Jeans: $990.00 ~

*With Kasane (to make both sides finished, the price will be 2.5 times as listed above.

Shippou Patten 

1 leg 1 side: $320.00 ~

1 leg both side: $570.00 ~

Entire Jeans: $990.00 ~

Sample of Sashiko Mending Custom

Sample of Sashiko Stitching Custom

Beyond Repairing | Sashiko Denim Repair Service with Japanese Vintage Fabric

Sashiko Vintage Patchwork

Using the Japanese Vintage Fabric Swatches, we make the big fabric by patchworking it, then perform Sashiko and patch it on the Jeans.

You may design where and how to patch the fabric.

We would need to make the patchwork fabrics since the Japanese Vintage Fabric is very limited in the market. We will try to make your preference happen.

Fee Estimate: $1,900.00 and up.

Including materials and labor, and necessary Shipping fees. The work may be done in Japan.

Contemporary Boro 001_5

Contemporary Boro | By Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya

The word of “Contemporary Boro” may confuse you a bit. But let me try to explain.

Boro is a type of Japanese textile that has been mended and/or patched together over and over. The appearance of Boro implies that the textile is old and very used, like a torn rag. Therefore, I initially thought the combination of words, contemporary (current/new) and Boro, might confuse the audience. Boro is the result of repetition of stitching over time found in from the past. The Japanese, who lived in a small village surrounded by mountains, had to repair the fabric by hand-stitching because of limited resources. They didn’t have enough money or logistics to get the new fabric from the market. In other words, they had to repair instead of replacing the fabric. They patch a hole one fabric, then kept using it. When they find another hole, they patched it or mend it. The repetition of hand-stitching repairing made a great art piece, and it is called Boro.

*Boro in Japanese means a completely torn rag textile. Sometimes it means “No Use.”

 

Introducing the word of Contemporary Boro is one of our challenges to share the beauty of Sashiko. We believe that Boro artworks by Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya will wide-open the possibility of Boro Art.

 

Contemporary Boro 001_1
BORO_001US (Keiko Futatsuya)

Contemporary Boro 002_2
BORO_002US
Contemporary Boro 001_2 Contemporary Boro 002_1
Contemporary Boro 001_3 Contemporary Boro 002_5
Contemporary Boro 001_4 Contemporary Boro 004
Contemporary Boro 001_5 Contemporary Boro 002_3
Contemporary Boro 001_6 Contemporary Boro 002_6

 

 

 

Contemporary Boro For Sale

 

These are the Boro Artworks created (mended, repaired, patched and stitched) in 2017 by Keiko Futatsuya’s hands. Keiko mended holes on the big torn Boro fabric, which will not function as textile, and patched the other small swatches of Boros into the big art piece. Since Keiko performs Sashiko on the Boro in 2017, we call it Contemporary Boro. Although there are numbers of beautiful Boros in the antique markets, it is rare to have a Boro art piece repaired in 2017, by hand-stitching as the Japanese used to do in 19 century. Keiko is a Sashiko artist who can recreate the Boro. It is my pleasure to introduce Keiko and her works to the world.

 

Enjoy Clean Boro hand-stitched in 2017

 

Sometimes, a piece of Boro art can be dirty and dusty. It is no wonder because the Boro may have been kept in the storage room for many years. However, there is a problem of cleaning Boro. Since no one touched the boro for many years, some parts of Boro fabric is completely damaged and the washing process, even gentle hand wash, can destroy the Boro piece. From time to time, the dirt function as the adhesive and washing makes the boro into pieces.

 

We know that from experience

We purchased a 100+ years old rain jacket from an antique market. They used to make a rain jacket by inserting water-resistant paper in between fabrics. They made 3 layers of fabric-paper-fabric to make the water resisting cloth. This is the fact we learned after we purchased and washed it. By washing the piece we purchased, the weight become 1/3 of the original fabric. The water-resistant paper and other damaged fabric were washed away with the dirt on the fabric.

 

The Contemporary Boro we introduce is washable. We repeatedly washed the original Boro, then mended and repaired as the Japanese used to do. The fabric may be very fragile, but not dirty or dusty. In fact, we believe the true value of Boro can be found in usage in daily life. We think this boro can be a great wall-decor, but also you may use it as home-decor like a table runner or placemat for flower vase. Again, it is washable. (Please wash gently with hand).

 

We don’t know how many these Contemporary Boros we can make throughout our lives. However, we are working on collecting the boro pieces and mending them to introduce more of these beautiful artwork we are proud of.

 

 

 

 

Sashiko Swatches Collection 4th

Sashiko Swatches Collection 4th | #015 ~ #019

One of our Sashiko Stitched Swatches is sold out. We are so happy to share these beautiful all-hand-made pieces of fabrics. We still have been adding the Sashiko Swatches to the Etsy Store. It is our Sashiko Swatches Collection 4th here.

The price may surprise someone who is not familiar with real Sashiko. We believe the pricing isn’t outrageous because of the materials (Japanese Vintage Fabric and Natural Dye Thread) and the time we had to invest in. At the same time, we would like as many people as possible to enjoy the touch and beauty of Sashiko Stitched Swatches. If you have any idea or advice on that, it would be very appreciated. Well, first, I probably should advertise them better since not many people visited the page yet.

 

*A series of introducing Sashiko swatches is consisted by many articles on this blog. The previous article is here.

 

Sashiko Swatches Collection 4th Edition

 

1. #015 Indigo Vintage Long with Asano-ha

*Click the title to purchase and for more detail. It is a long vintage fabric with a hint of Sashiko. A very rare fabric in the market.

 

The Japanese Vintage Fabric, especially those with Natural Indigo Dyes, has been geeting so popular over years. The thin cotton fabric with Indigo Dye, and beautiful Sashiko stitches could be used as the window hunger (Noren) before. It is stunning.

 

2. #016 Indigo Vintage Fabric with Kagome

*Click the title to purchase and for more detail. A small, trimmed fabric. Good for a placemat, coaster, and as the materials for your project.

 

 

Thick Indigo Dyed Fabric with basic Kagome Sashiko Stitching. The reasonable price will expand the options in your Sashiko (or any kinds) projects.

 

3.#017 Thread Bobbin (Itomaki) Sashiko

*Click the title to purchase and for more detail. The one-of-a kind. We don’t have the pattern any longer.

 

 

The Japanese used the Thread Bobbins (Itomaki) as the picture shown above. The stitcher this Sashiko used its image to express the passion of Sashiko, I believe. The Sashiko stitching with Classic Sashiko Itomaki Bobbins.

 

4.#018 Kamon and Vintage Fabric

*Click the title to purchase and for more detail.

 

The Kamon (家紋)Pattern is something we all Japanese appreciate. The Indigo Dyed Fabric with the Kamon Pattern Stitched is very special for us. The stitcher used chasing stitching (追っかけ – Okkake) to reinforce the stitching. This piece of fabric can be a great addition to your garment or any other projects to make it “one of a kind.”

 

5.#019 Kamon with Bird. Lighter Indigo with White Thread

*Click the title to purchase and for more detail. It is the similar item from #001.

 

Gorgeous Sashiko fabric with Kamon sytle bird designing.

We have 3 kinds of options with different types of fabric and different colors on the exactly same design and craftsmanship.

 

 

 

We Keep updated to our Sashiko Swatches Collection

In order to make Big Sashiko Project, such as Jackets and Bags, we would need to collect many types of fabric, Sashiko artisans & craftsman. We sometimes test the stitching result to see if the thread color matches the fabric, either the design match to the big project. We are happy to share some Sashiko pieces we didn’t use. A concept of Mottainai – too good to waste – is here.

This was the page for Sashiko Swatches Collection 4th, and 5th will be coming up soon.

 

 

 

Japanese Shima Kasuri

Japanese Shima Kasuri Textile for Sashiko

A pile of sample swatches of Japanese Shima (stripe) and Kasuri textile has arrived at the Upcycle Stitches. About 50 kinds of beautiful fabric made in Japan is available for sale and to be used in custom order. Some of them are not suitable for Sashiko. We will recommend the best fabric based on your preferences. I sincerely respect the manufacturers of Japanese Shima Kasuri Textile and I would like to continue using these beautiful fabrics as long as we can. The beautiful Japanese Shima fabric and Kasuri fabric with collaborating Sashiko stitching will make very unique, and beautiful house goods, such as coasters, placemats, and more. Even bags and jackets are available to made to order.

 

Sashiko Dinning Goods

*The photo shows the placemats and coasters made from Indigo Dye Fabric with Sashiko stitching

 

 

 

Indigo Dye, Shima Stripe, and Kasuri

When we enjoy Japanese traditional fabrics, we come across these keywords of Indigo Dye, Shima, and Kasuri. The Japanese cared what they wore in their unique fashion sense. Some of them were developed during the period when Japan closed its country border to the foreign countries. The era of National Isolation. We appreciate the hand-craft culture, and sincerely respect those who inheritance the technique and culture to continuously produce the great materials.

We are happy to introduce some of these beautiful fabrics to the world, with our proud technique and culture, Sashiko stitching.

 

 

All the samples of Japanese Shima Kasuri Textile

We have more than 50 kinds of fabric in form of small swatch.

As of now, we don’t share the most samples, but you are welcome to visit us to check the sample book. When we can build enough inventory, we will start providing the samples to retails shops/studios across the US. Although the sample is not available, the fabrics are available for sale. Please contact me for more detail. I will send you a PDF with photos of the sample and the price sheet.

*Some fabric is available for sale as well as sharing the samples.

Contact Atsushi in Upcycle Stitches 

 

 

Japanese Shima Kasuri 1 14 Japanese Shima Kasuri
13 Japanese Shima Kasuri 12 Japanese Shima Kasuri
11 Japanese Shima Kasuri  10 Japanese Shima Kasuri
8 Japanese Shima Kasuri 9 Japanese Shima Kasuri
7 Japanese Shima Kasuri 5 Japanese Shima Kasuri
2 Japanese Shima Kasuri 6 Japanese Shima Kasuri
4 Japanese Shima Kasuri 3 Japanese Shima Kasuri
27 Japanese Shima Kasuri 28 Japanese Shima Kasuri
28 Japanese Shima Kasuri 25 Japanese Shima Kasuri
23 Japanese Shima Kasuri 24 Japanese Shima Kasuri

 

24 Japanese Shima Kasuri 15 Japanese Shima Kasuri
18 Japanese Shima Kasuri 16 Japanese Shima Kasuri
19 Japanese Shima Kasuri 17 Japanese Shima Kasuri
20 Japanese Shima Kasuri 21 Japanese Shima Kasuri
Sashiko White Thread Comparison 1

A Subtle difference in Sashiko White Thread

Indigo Dyed – dark blue fabric and white thread; it is the most popular fabric-thread combination for a long time. Even in modern society, Sashiko with the dark blue fabric and white thread is unique and beautiful. We have two kinds of Sashiko white thread; Original White (Ecru White) and Bright White (Bleached White).

 

Sashiko White Thread Difference
Above: Original White #10/ Below: Bright White #12

 

Comparison in Sashiko White Thread

The thread #10 Original White has an ecru color. In comparison, it is more like the cream color. The thread #12 Bright White is the snow-white color, and it is the white we think of when we say, white. #12 is the brighter white than #10. I named #10 Original White because #12 is dyed (bleached) to make the pure white color.

Both of them are the perfect thread for Sashiko stitching. The color you may choose is up to your preference. Here is a sample Sashiko fabric that I use both #10 and #12 on Indigo Dye Fabric. Interestingly, when you stitch the 2 Sashiko White Thread on the Indigo fabric, #10 looks also pure-white. We choose the thread color AFTER we find the fabric because the stitching on the fabric will decide which thread will result in the color we are imagining.

*This is the reason Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya dye the thread by hands: to create the color we would like to have on top of 22 color selection.

 

Sashiko White Thread Comparison
Left: #10 Original White / Right: #12 Bright White

Even we aren’t so sure how color of stitching come out

Keiko has almost 35 years of experience in Sashiko. She always says, “We can imagine how the color of stitching will come out. However, it isn’t certain and we cannot promise the color result when we try something new.”

When we start a new project, we often make a small stitching sample to make sure if the fabric and stitching match as we imagine. It is another reason of difficulty in accepting a custom order over the Internet. Although we want to achieve the result is as the customer imagined, the combination sometimes results in difference to the image based on the color chart. We accept an order from the people who understand this difficulty of finding the right thread.

 

Well, in fact, this difficulty is actually what makes Sashiko more interesting.

We never know what’s gonna happen until we actually start stitching. Isn’t it like a life?