Category: Workshop

Sashiko Online Workshop Cover

Online Sashiko Class | Anywhere Anytime.

atsushijp 29 Comments

It is my pleasure to start offering the Sashiko Online Class via videos on our Vimeo page & Follow-Up Live Session. In order to avoid any unfortunate misunderstandings, please read carefully this “Online Sashiko Class Terms and Conditions” before signing up here.

【Last Update: Jan.2024 // Class is available as of 2024】

Sign Up the Sashiko Online Class

What is Included in Online Sashiko Class

Online Videos to Learn [Core & Essence] of Sashiko

Sashiko Online Class (Core and Essence)

  • Section.1: Sashiko Lecture about history and wisdom (about 30 minutes duration. Lecture style)
  • Section.2: Stitching Lecture about the core of Sashiko (about 30 minutes duration. First, watch the video through, then move hands with watching it for the second time.)
  • Section.3: Sashiko Stitching Lecture about how to maximize the Sashiko experience with stitching with Asanoha pattern.
  • Live Session: A participant joins the Live Zoom Session to confirm their learning (Semi-private setting).

*I have to admit that the video filming and editing aren’t my strength. You will have unlimited access to those videos for a year, and I will keep updating the video as necessary. If you have any questions, please feel free to share so I can improve the videos.

This is the online version of the Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic). Due to “new normal” during/after Covid-19, the opportunity for In-person Sashiko Workshop is limited. After 2 years of teaching online, I am confident to say that the Online Sashiko Class is as good as the in-person workshop.

Some of the topics, such as “how to apply Sashiko stitching to visible mending” or “how to stitch the certain patterns” are not included in this Sashiko Online Class. I have a plan to offer them as a subscription program. When it happens, this Sashiko Online Class (Core and Basic) will be the prerequisite to any of the workshops I offer.

**If it is extremely difficult to join the Online Session, I also understand that. In that case, the participant can send me a video of him/her stitching as I introduced in the workshop. The person has a year to join the Online session or to send me a video for checking. I am afraid that the prerequisite will not be effective until Atsushi actually confirms the stitching the way the participant does.

Materials to learn Sashiko with:

The Online Sashiko Class comes with all of the materials you would need to ennjoy Sashiko. The contents are following:

  • Indigo dyed cotton fabric with Asano-ha pattern printed on (Please do NOT pre-wash).
  • Another fabric to practice the rhythm & to make a tote bag or something “usable” (Thinner Cotton Fabric)
  • Swatches to practice the needle movement (and they can be used as a bag handle)
  • A skein of Sashiko Thread – White
  • A package of Sashiko needles (3) and the Thimble
  • Sashiko Thread Bobbin Paper
  • A chalk pencil to enforce the pattern

*If you have purchased the #12 thread before and would like to have the other color, please contact me as well. You may choose the other color from 15 colors collection, or other natural dye Sashiko thread with the additional fee.

*Starting 2024, I do not include the Fusible Interfacing I talk about in the Online Class Video to keep our Online Class fee. The fusible Interfacing doesn’t have to be specific unlike other materials in the box. Depends on how you use the stitched fabric, you may not need the interfacing. Therefore, please get the Interfacing from your local store, or even Amazon, when you need one. Thank you for your understanding.

Support for your learning experience

  • I will be available for any questions over e-mail. If I cannot answer it over the email, I will make a video to clear your concern.
  • Unlimited access to the videos to learn Sashiko Online for a year starting from the day you receive the official welcome email.
  • After completing the section.3, One ticket to the Online Live Sashiko Session to clear up all the questions and confirming what you learned through video.

The preparation requirement on the Participant side

Please prepare the items on the list below. The tools and items below are NOT included in the Online Sashiko Class materials.

  • Fabric Scissor (or good fine scissors to cut the skein of the thread) – You may purchase one from me here.
  • Thread Clipper (A scissor above would be acceptable, but it is a good idea to have the thread clipper for better result) – You may purchase one from me here (*strongly getting the high end, like above $20).
  • Scotch Tape – Any tape is fine. We use it to secure the thread together
  • Threader – I will explain how to thread the needle, but a threader may help for the first few times.
  • Masking Tape or Vynil Tape to protect your fingernail from scratching.

*Please expect the email describing what kind of preparation we need for the Live-Session for Sashiko Online Class. It isn’t so complicated, but you would need a smartphone (or a PC) and a stand (or a tripod).

A limit numbers for the sign-ups

Although the most part of the Sashiko Online Class is done by you watching the recorded videos, I set the limit numbers for the sign-ups for a period of time so I can be fully supportive to the participants.

The Sashiko Online Class completes when the participants join one of the Live Sessions where Atsushi will confirm the hand-stitching he/she performs & answer questions. Therefore, we would like to keep the numbers as comfortably manageable. The Sashiko Online Class is the hybrid of Video Lectures (on Vimeo) as well as the Live-Style workshop.

[Update]
  • Due to a high demand, the Online Sashiko Class may be “sold out”. In that case, please fill-out the waiting list so that I can contact you before refilling the spot.

Videos are strictly for the participants

Please respect these terms and conditions for all the Sashiko online class materials. It is, of course, for the copyright we hold for the contents we make. It took so much effort to come up.

I am not only talking about compensation for us. Spreading the videos to the ocean of the Internet is so scary because the videos can cause misunderstandings without the proper explanation. I decided to offer the Sashiko Online Class by overcoming the fear of making some mistakes on-demand Videos. The reason I could overcome the fear was the trust of the others that they will be responsible & I will be extra careful. Your understanding of my situation would be very much appreciated.

As I mentioned above, the Online Sashiko Class complete when Atsushi checks the Unshin (運針）and answers all the questions about Sashiko stitching. It is the support and follow-up that makes a difference. I learned that the video itself will not teach the core of Sashiko stitching 100%, and it is very important that I will meet you over the Internet.

If this video goes to the public, we won’t be able to follow-up with all the audiences. People will watch what they want to watch, and they will understand Sashiko as they want to understand. It will not achieve the goal I set for the Online Sashiko Class.

We sincerely appreciate your understanding. Please do not share the passwords to watch the videos with others. Again, someone misunderstanding what I really would like to share by watching the “free” video is the last thing I would like to experience throughout this new challenge. I know the people who read these terms and conditions will not do something like this intentionally. However, I want you to be extra careful when you handle the password.

How the Lecture videos Work

By agreeing and paying the fee, I will add you to the Sashiko Online Class Mailing list (or a Group-chat App). Your access to the On-Deman videos is valid for a year. Within the year, you can watch the videos of Sashiko Online Class [Core & Essence] as many times as you need.

I know I am not good at filming the video. Therefore, I plan to update the videos every once a while, and as necessary. Occasionally, I change the password when I feel the necessity. So please make sure that you have your email address available for the Google Group email. The access for the videos can be extended for the extra fee (Please find the latest google form that I had asked students to extend their subscription. I believe it is reasonable.)

The Password will be in the supply package & on the Welcome Email. You will receive an email when we change the password.

You receive one ticket to join the Online Live Session, where you can ask any questions. I will also make sure that you learned everything I introduced by checking your hand-posture and stitching. You may receive the 2nd ticket if I find any issues or concerns that need to be resolved. This Online Sashiko gathering will take about 30 minutes to up to 120 minutes, depends on the person’s level of understanding.

Don’t worry too much. My goal is to help you to master the Sashiko stitching.

*You may want to purchase the 3rd or 4th ticket to join the Live Session for the extra fee. Please let me know if you are interested. I am pretty sure that the videos and one-time live-style workshops are comprehensive for you so you won’t need an extra ticket. I will offer the 2nd one if there is anything we couldn’t resolve. Also, Watching my live-streaming would be just enough to make sure you are doing appropriately. However, I am happy to have 3rd or 4th session if you would like to: Please choose a ticket here. Also, if you are a graduate of Atsushi’s In-Person Sashiko Workshop [Core & Essence] (6 hours or longer Workshop), you are eligible to take the Online Live Session. Please purchase the ticket AFTER confirming if you have taken the [Core & Essence] Workshop.

Terms and Conditions for Sashiko Online Class

  • All the participants of the Sashiko Online Class read this article & registration description carefully and agree with the contents.
  • No images or videos is allowed to be shared online or with others unless the person has written permission (email) from Atsushi and Upcycle Stitches LLC.
  • All contents throughout the Sashiko Online Class is protected by copyright to Atsushi Futatsuya & Upcycle Stitches LLC
  • All purchase is final. There is no refund available unless Atsushi made a fatal mistake in his explanation.

Cancel and Refund Policy

Since this workshop includes a lot of materials delivered to you prior to the actual workshop, we do not accept the cancellation and refund after the official welcome email with mentioning the package is shipped out. The subscription will start the day you receive the package from us.

You may reschedule the Live Session to check up your progress after signing up, but please respect us and the others who join the Live Session on the same day. So please let me know as soon as possible. In the extreme case scenario, I will accept the reschedule of the appointment, but please be reasonable for that.

Your understanding and cooperation would be very much appreciated.

I am looking forward to meeting you!!

Sign Up & Learn from Atsushi in the Online Sashiko Class

Sashiko Workshop Schedule 2019

Sashiko Workshop Schedule 2019

atsushijp 7 Comments

Thanks to many participants who shared their great time with us in Sashiko workshops, the Sashiko workshop by Atsushi Futatsuya obtained good reviews. We intend to continue the Sashiko Workshops in NYC, and here is Sashiko Workshop Schedule 2019.

I have received many requests to come back to NYC to offer another workshop. As I mentioned in 2018, I plan to take it a bit slow in terms workshop so I can spend more time in creating Sashiko items. Although I will not be able to offer the Sashiko Workshops as much as I did in 2018, I hope you can find a spot for you.

A whole view of Sashiko Workshop Schedule 2019

You may register yourself on the Sashiko Workshop Store for your preferable workshop here.

As of now, we offer one workshop weekend in Spring, and one workshop weekend in Summer.

Please contact me if you are interested in taking the workshop in NYC, Manhattan Tribeca Area, yet your schedule doesn’t match for the available workshops in 2019. I will add you to the priority email list to let you know the availability before the regular newsletter sent out. The more people contact me, the more likely to offer them more.

Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Basic&Core)

The basic yet the core Sashiko Stitching Workshop. The well-organized, satisfying workshop is available anyone who can be in NYC for the workshop weekend. The only “fair” review is that it is a bit short (180 minutes and plus) workshop. However, you will get everything you need to enjoy Sashiko there & attentive follow-ups.

Open to Enrollment in 2019

 

 

We are still working on the scheduling the Sashiko Workshop for the Fall/Winter 2019. As of now, we are finalizing the date on Nov. 9th and 10th. It may be the weekend of Nov. 2nd and 3rd. Either weekend, the time slot would be (1) 10:00 am to 1:30 pm and (2) 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm. The location is in TriBeCa (near City Hall Station – R.W. line).

I added the option to pre-purchase the workshop so you will secure your spot. Please check the registration page.

Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Basic&Core and Plus)

The workshops below are specifically designed workshopes for the collaborators who support us to have the workshop. The participants will get everything from the Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Basic&Core), and in addition, the workshop participants will get more contents based on what I am collaborating to. The examples of extra contents are “How to transfer the pattern to the fabric” and/or “Sashiko Mending Basic”. 

@ Loop of the Loom | With enjoying other beautiful natural dye fabrics.

@ Purl Soho NYC | with small practice of preparing the pattern.

@ A Maker’s Circle | with applying the technique to the mending projects.

Enjoy Sashiko in Happy Holidays

Hitomezashi Sashiko Workshop (Advanced)

*Prerequisite: Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Basic&Core)

(Previous in 2018)

  • July 22nd, Sunday, 9:45 pm to 12:45 pm for 3 hours | Great success! Thank you.

(Open to Enrollment)

Please wait for the update.

 

Online Sashiko Workshop (In Progress)

For those who cannot travel to NYC, Online Sashiko Workshop is a possibility. Please fulfill the form to inform us about the preferences. The more preference we have, the easier it is to offer the Online Workshop.

https://goo.gl/forms/DJhnefzmpMLwMCnw

 

 

QuiltCon 2020

I will be offering the Sashiko Workshop similar to Core & Basic one in QuiltCon 2020 in Austin, TX. Please check the detail in their website as well as the course catalogue.

https://www.quiltcon.com/

 

Sashiko Stitching and more.

As you know, Sashiko has been a big part of my life. I was born in a Sashiko family, and I grew up surrounded by Sashiko artisans and their Sashiko.

Once, I thought Sashiko wouldn’t be necessary in 20XX. In my youth, the technology and innovation attracted me and Sashiko was merely a burden to me. After several years of focusing on mindfulness, I realize that I would like to pass down Sashiko to the next generation, to the day in 20XX.

 

Sashiko is a form of stitching developed in Japan. There are many reasons why the Japanese had developed this stitching customs, and the reasons illustrate what the Japanese culture is like pretty well. Therefore, I would like to share not only the stitching techniques but also the “mindset” behind the Sashiko culture. 

I believe, our Sashiko workshop (especially Sashiko Stitching Workshop – Core & Basic) is the best place to do so. The participant will receive a whole package of what we would like to pass down.

 

No more Judging.

My goal is to stop judging myself throughout Sashiko. I hope, so is yours.

Being good at Sashiko isn’t that difficult. Sashiko is a form of stitching after all. However, we believe Sashiko is more than just mere stitching. It is the wisdom (pride and courage) from the Japanese who survived in the severe winter. There is no such a thing as “right” or “wrong” in Sashiko. However, there is techniques we developed over time to make it more beautiful, easy, and after all enjoyable.

 

Most importantly, our goal for you is to share how fun & enjoyable Sashiko can be. Sometimes, Sashiko can be too addictive.

In 2017 and 2018, I have taught Sashiko to over 100 participants to the Sashiko Workshop. Although I always get nervous before the workshop, I have a confident that everyone can have the eye-opening experience in our Sashiko Workshops.

 

Please consider our workshop as an opportunity to enjoy Sashiko more.

If you don’t know anything about Sashiko, it is the great way to start. If you already know about Sashiko, then it is a great way to add the technique and knowledge to your art-work.

 

Sashiko Workshop Schedule 2019 | Help us to have more workshops in NYC.

Since the instructor Atsushi is located in the central PA, about 4 hours of driving away from NYC,  we cannot offer the workshops as often as we would like to do. In addition, Atsushi’s main role, continuously in 2019, is to be a homemaker father (cooking, cleaning and such).

Realistically speaking, offering Sashiko Workshops 3 ~ 4 times a year is a reasonable amount to plan the schedule.

However, we are willing to offer as many workshops as possible. Even more than 4 times per year if there is a need.

In order to do so, we need a certain amount of participant in the workshops. We would like to know how many people in the East Coast are willing to join the Sashiko Workshops. Please share your passion by posting comments here and/or registering yourself to our mailing list (from the top page) with checking “Yes” to the workshop notification.

You can also email me here to let me know you are very much interested. I have a separate email list to send out the workshop specific date before writing the main newsletter. 

We are looking forward to meeting you & hearing from you!

75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko Cover

75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko Workshop

atsushijp 2 Comments

It is my honor to be a part of the great event in December, in TriBeCa area organized by my dear friend, Matt Aprile from Indi. I am so happy to announce our participation to 75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko Workshop. Atsushi will be offering the Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core and Basic) as well as a short-version workshop.

 

75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko

 

 

75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko

 

Sashiko Workshop Schedule

The exact location will be notified directly to your email address from our email address (info ● sashico.com) after your registration. All of the materials are included in the registration fee. No experiences in Sashiko is required. Simply bring your passion and interest and learn the authentic culture of Sashiko stitching.

 

Atsushi has been teaching Sashiko in NYC every 2 months or so.

Offering the workshop to more than 70 participants, we are confident that we can provide the eye-opening and satisfying workshop for you. Since Atsushi does not live in NYC, our schedule is not periodic. As of now, we do not have any plans for 2019. Please take this opportunity to celebrate the Holidays together. Winter is a great time to enjoy Sashiko.

Please read the workshop description here to understand “what you can expect from Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic)”

 

Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic)

This is the well-reviewed and well-organized Sashiko workshop that the participant can learn everything she/he needs to start enjoying the Sashiko.

 

Dec 8th Saturday

  • 9:30 am to 12:30: 2nd-floor Studio
  • 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm:2nd-floor Studio

Dec 9th Sunday

  • 1 pm to 5 pm: 2nd-floor Studio| A bit bigger group and longer, but the same contents.

 

75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko Fukin 75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko Hariyama

 

Sashiko Denim Preview Workshop

 

*This is a first time offer designed for 75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko.

Available Date:

  • Saturday, December 8th, 1:20 pm to 2:30 pm | about 1 hour
  • Sunday, December 8th, 10 am to 11:10 pm | about 1 hour

 

What you can expect from Short-Term Workshop

With provided material, you will learn how to transfer or draw the basic pattern of Japanese traditional geometric pattern to the Denim Swatch. Then, Atsushi will share how you can patch the swatch to your favorite Denim. It is a very quick introduction of Sashiko & the process of applying Sashiko to the denim

Please bring your own denim with a hole or tear. You may bring the Denim without any hole or tear, but the denim with more damage would be fun to work with.

 

*I believe, in order to learn the core technique and culture of Sashiko, anyone would need at least 2 hours of actual stitching. If you are interested in Sashiko, please consider taking the Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic). We will not disappoint you if Sashiko Stitching interest and inspire you.

 

 

75 COLLECTIVE Participants

 

Please see a list of all the founders who will be joining us below, I have also linked each name to the respective websites. I am so honored to meet all of these brands’ founders. I am a Sashiko professional, but I have a lot to learn for branding Upcycle Stitches in the USA.

 

Event Details:

 

WHO:

75 COLLECTIVE

WHAT:

a collective of global brands

who care about how our clothes are made

and the people who make them

WHERE:

75 MURRAY ST, 1st Fl

New York, NY 10007

WHEN:

12/1-2 from 10am to 6pm

12/8-9 from 10am to 6pm

THE EVENT

We are creating a space where established and emerging conscious clothing brands can gather together to build community and exhibit their work, work bound by the thread of artisanal and handcrafted tradition and heritage.

we are:

STUDIO 189
KORRA JEANS
11.11 eleven eleven
indi
blluemade
POST-IMPERIAL
SANNGA
KORDAL STUDIO

with workshops offered by

Upcycle Stitches (75 COLLECTIVE x Sashiko)

RIGG
indi

with food & beverages by:

MAI SHIOYAMA

In our eyes the future of the fashion industry has the potential to be a bright one; one that supports the people who actually produce the clothing, the artisans responsible for the crafts that inform the clothing, and the communities around which the clothes are built through sustainable production practices.

We will be offering workshops so you can experience the traditions and crafts integral to many of our brands. Sign-up for the workshops here

instagram: @the75collective

Sashiko Class Cover

Sashiko Class | What you can learn from us

atsushijp Leave a comment

Sashiko is a form of very simple hand-stitching. We believe that anyone can practice, enjoy and even master Sashiko stitching. The technique itself is so simple that our full-length (more than 3 hours) workshop can cover most of the core skills and techniques. Because of its simplicity, it is up to the Sashiko practitioners to apply these basic & core techniques to their own Sashiko projects. It’s not that difficult to be a Sashiko craftsman, yet it is very challenging to make the “beautiful” Sashiko pieces. Throughout our Sashiko Class, we teach the basic & core Sashiko skill and knowledge. In other words, we will share the first step to be the Sashiko craftsman in Sashiko Class. We are very much looking forward to seeing our participants being the Sashiko artists with collaborating to their own field, culture, and experience.

 

What kind of Sashiko Class?

Upcycle Stitches LLC and Atsushi offer several kinds of classes, but the most important one is the first Sashiko Class everyone needs to take to proceeds other Sashiko related classes. We sometimes call “the class”  as “the workshop”. It is the same thing on this website. We teach the student what Sashiko is (Class) and then we work together to learn how Sashiko is done with our hands (workshops).

 

Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic)

This is the Sashiko Class Atsushi has been offering for more than 10 times in the last 2 years. If a participant doesn’t know how to use the round thimble and long Sashiko needle (51.5mm), we are pretty confident that we can provide the eye-opening, pleasantly surprising time in this class/workshop. This is our very basic, and this workshop is the prerequisite of every workshop I offer after the “Core & Basic” workshop.

Please find the detail of what you can expect to learn in the workshop description page here.

 

With collaborating with other organization

When we collaborate with other well-connected organizations, they may use the different name for their Sashiko Class offering.

For example, the other organization may call the workshop:

  • Traditional Sashiko Workshop
  • Japanese Sashiko Workshop
  • Sashiko Stitching

As long as it is offered by Atsushi Futatsuya, with mentioning that he will share how to use the thimble and needle, the contents of the Sashiko class will be very similar to the Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic). I occasionally “add” the contents corresponding to the requests by the organization. For example, one organization want me to talk about Sashiko & mending denim a bit, and the other would like me to talk about Natural Dye and Vintage Fabric.

 

The pricing for these collaborated classes can differ.

I try to be consistent to the charge I propose, and the organizer and us decide the pricing based on location, duration of the Sashiko Class, the extra materials Atsushi provides, the dextra theme we will cover, and such. Regardless, the Sashiko Workshop/class offered by Atsushi without any prerequisite can be very similar because the ultimate goal for these workshops is to teach students how to use the thimble and needle.

 

The article regarding my fees for offering the workshop.

Arranging Sashiko Workshop | Bring Sashiko to your group.

 

If the student has taken one of Atsushi’s workshop which doesn’t have prerequisites, he/she doesn’t need to take other Sashiko workshops from the different organization even the name is different. The content of the Sashiko Class /Workshop can be very similar, and he/she may be bored. Please do not register the workshop unless you plan to review the same materials you have already covered. If you would like to take it regardless, we are happy to have you there.

 

Basic & Core Sashiko Class Achievement

Here is a list of person & organizations with great goodwill and respecting concepts. Thanks to these organizations and individuals, I can continue offering the workshop. Sincere appreciation to them.

(In Alphabetical order)

For full-length Sashiko Class/Workshop

  • Curious Corners
  • Eileen Fisher | Making Space Brooklyn
  • Purl Soho | Studio
  • Pioneer Works, Brooklyn
  • Tatter Blue Library

 

Short length, Introductory Workshop

  • Japan Society | Introductory short workshop

 

The individuals who support me to have our own Sashiko Workshop

  • Sharon and Frank in TriBeCa

 

 

Following Sashiko Class after the basic

We have one following Sashiko Class after the basic & core. It is called “Hitomezashi Sashiko Workshop”. Please refer the article here for more information.

 

 

*All of the Sashiko Class is supervised and carefully discussed with the group of Sashiko Artists in Japan, Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya.

Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop Making Space

Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop | Making Space

atsushijp Leave a comment

We are very excited to announce that Atsushi will offer the Sashiko Stitching Workshop at the “Making Space“, which is operated by a well-known Fashion Brand, Eileen Fisher. Yes. This is an announcement of Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop by Atsushi Futatsuya.

 

The participants will learn all the basic to enjoy Sashiko Stitching and will be able to use some Eileen Fisher Fabric swatches to enjoy Sashiko on. The participants may bring their own Eileen Fisher Garments to add Sashiko stitching or Sashiko Stitched Swatch on.

The concept of Making Space is to create a community where people can gather. It is my honor to be part of this movement, and we sincerely appreciate the generosity of Eileen Fisher to let me offer the workshop with the reasonable pricing. It will be a great opportunity for you to learn Sashiko, in a beautiful location in Brooklyn, with surrounded by their beautiful products.

 

Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop Fabric

*Please refer to the blog post to understand what Sashiko is.

 

Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop in October

 

Please purchase the ticket through their “Making Space Eventbrite” Page.

 

Location: MAKING SPACE – BROOKLYN

47 Bergen Street

Brooklyn, NY 11201

 

 

Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop Location Brooklyn

 

Reuse the Garment. Synchronize the Sashiko we respect.

After I received an invitation to offer the Sashiko Workshop at Making Space, I studied about Eileen Fisher as a Fashion Brand. Well, as a male from Japan, I didn’t know of Eileen Fisher before. The first message I learned from their website is “to Care”, in which I value the most in a process of sharing the culture of Sashiko.

Eileen Fisher Renew

https://www.eileenfisher.com/renew

 

Sashiko was originally developed in a survival purpose. They had to use the needle and thread to survive through the severe winter. In modern society, in the developed countries, almost no one need to use the needle and thread to survive the winter. In fact, the social issue rises from the other side of mending: wasting.

The reason Keiko and I started a project called Sashi.Co is to “bring a life back to the beautiful yet not-used Japanese (vintage) fabric.” By doing Sashiko stitching, the vintage fabric gets stronger and more durable with interesting patterns. Patchworking (=connecting) these unique individual vintage fabric give the fabric another life. Keiko tells fabric, “We will bring you back to the main stage, again.” We define the main stage as the “ordinary days”. The stage we have in our mind is not a fashion stage with many spotlights. It is merely an ordinary day where a person can wear.

 

Resuing the garment to produce something new.

Using the needle and thread, making Sashiko stitching to repurpose the garment.

Upcycling what we already have with appreciation.

 

I am happy that I can offer what I am proud of (Sashiko) in such a great space.

 

 

More information Coming. More stories I would like to tell.

 

When I started my own Sashiko project, Upcycle Stitches, I had a great opportunity to talk to the students at FIT. Since I wasn’t ready to face to the future fashion stars, I probably gave them strange answers, which probably include some of the disappointment. Well… I wasn’t really ready to share my opinion about the fashion waste and potential pollution. It was (and probably still is) too big to answer.

 

However, I met many people who “Care” as I do.

It is another reason I started our Youtube Channel to share what we do. The event of “Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop” is a beginning of another journey to me. I will study more about their concepts, and I will connect and synchronize what we believe in. More stories are coming up. The “Eileen Fisher x Sashiko Workshop” continues.

 

 

Japan Society NYC x Sashiko Workshop

Japan Society NYC x Sashiko Workshop | follow Up

atsushijp 1 Comment

Thank you very much for being a part of a great evening, Japan Society NYC x Sashiko Workshop by Atsushi Futatsuya. It is our very first challenge to share Sashiko stitching to so many people. We usually have a workshop for the size of 6 to 12 participants… so yes, it was something great for me. I hope you had received a message for my passion of Sashiko, and introductory technique of beautiful Sashiko stitching.

For those who signed up with your email for the follow-up email, please expect to receive the email from Atsushi by 10/5. If you do not receive anything from Atsushi, the email may be in your spam box, or I misread the email itself. In that case, please contact me from here.

 

Missed Japan Society NYC x Sashiko Workshop ?

 

I have received several emails that they, unfortunately, couldn’t participate in this Japan Society NYC x Sashiko Workshop.

Do not worry. With increasing of the demand, I am planning to have another Online Sashiko Workshop (Core & Basic) as well as creating a downloadable video of “how to make Sashiko Coaster” which I covered in this Sashiko Workshop at Japan Society NYC.

In order to accomplish my goal, I still feel that “On Live Workshop” is a necessary step to teach how to do Sashiko with the specific thimble and the Sashiko needle. I understand that the needs for “Video – which you can watch and learn anytime” is huge. However, the key to learning the appropriate posture is me continuously checking (not judging) your posture and position of needle and thimble.

If you are interested in this Live – Small grouped Online Workshop, please fill out the form below. Once I find the similar preference and request, I will contact you to set up the workshop.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_FhpQGLrkh1wZInl4e-uz_uu0GDJrQKPG952TR2UYL_XB7g/viewform?usp=sf_link

 

 

Sashiko is not about being Right or Wrong

 

I hope I delivered this message in the workshop: There is no such a thing as Right Sashiko and Wrong Sashiko. Meanwhile, I make another video of how to make the coaster, and/or how to do Sashiko, please watch other “Live Streaming” and previous Tutorials on our Youtube Channel. Try to learn what you would like to learn. It is not a rule or regulations you need to follow. I simply share the technique and concept which may enrich your Sashiko experience.

I will also keep sharing “Stories” about Sashiko. The subscribers of the channel made me realize that “I have a lot of stories to tell.”

 

 

 

Following Sashiko Workshop

Upcycle Stitches LLC offers “Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic)” with collaborating to respected organizations which share the similar concepts and values. Since “introducing Sashiko” is my current goal, most of the workshop I offer in 2018 are the basic and core workshop.

 

In Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic), I cover the similar materials to the introductory workshop at Japan Society.

I will teach:

  • How to use the thimble and the needle
  • How to move the needle and making Sashiko running stitches
  • Using the similar Asano-ha pattern to make a tote bag (I do not teach how to make a tote bag.)
  • Introductory of Sashiko & its concept

Sashiko Workshop Tote

The biggest difference is that I will make sure that the participant “get comfortable to” the running stitch including how to hold the needle, fabric, and using the thimble. I will stand next to the participant, touch her/his hands if necessary, reposition the hands and posture. I will not give up even the participant gives up. From my experience, it takes about 2~3 hours to get used to the Sashiko running stitch.

If you aren’t 100% sure how to use the thimble and needle, these basic & core workshops should be a great workshop to make sure what you have learned. The class size is about 6 to 9. A lot of individual attention for every participant in the workshop.
Also, I will cover the following:
  • How to prepare the fabric (transferring patterns / how to draw patterns)
  • Sashiko running stitch with rhythm.
  • What kind of materials are the best
  • Upcycling the fabric with Sashiko | Especially with Eileen Fisher garment if you have one
  • Difference between Sashik0 and Boro | which I covered a bit in Japan Society Workshop.
  • How to stitch different patterns | brief explanation.
  • Unlimited questions within 4 hours and you will get enough answers because of the class size of 9 maximum.
If the participant is comfortable with using thimble and needle as I instructed at the introductory workshop, I can accept him/her for the advanced workshop AFTER checking his/her stitching over the video. Please send me a video of stitching so I can decide if you follow the instruction. However, unfortunately, without my permission after watching the video, the “introductory workshop” will not satisfy the prerequisite to the other (advanced) workshop I offer.  It is simply because I need to make sure that everyone is comfortable and understood how to use them when I do advanced workshops. I cannot confirm it in the introductory workshop because of the class size, so the person would need to show me if they got the information appropriately and practice it, or need to take the basic & core workshop to “master” the Sashiko Stitching.
I hope the explanation above is clear for the future Sashiko Workshops.
Sashiko Updates Fall 2018

Sashiko Updates Fall 2018 | New Project & Workshops

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I cannot believe it is almost the end of September already. It has been quite eventful early autumn for us. Here is a quick Sashiko Updates Fall 2018 to share what is going on with us. Remember, the best way to connect with us is through Instagram & Youtube Channel. I will share more “Stories” based on your request.

 

New Project!| Sashiko Updates Fall 2018 Vol.1

My passion for Sashiko got certain when I started enjoying Sashiko Mending. I have done quite many Sashiko Denim Mending and found myself without any denim jeans to mend. I didn’t touch the denim for a long time. Then, I realize, I would like to work on the denim. It is not my first choice to cut the fabric out of necessity, for the “repurposing” purpose instead of “mending”, I decided to try the new project. Cut and Patch back the denim with Sashiko Stitching all over.

It is my main project on Instagram & Youtube Live streaming. I hope I can complete the project by the end of October… It will be something new, and hopefully something to inspire some of you.

 

Sashiko Updates Fall 2018

 

Sashiko Workshop| Sashiko Updates Fall 2018 Vol.2

Thanks to many supporters, I can continue offering the Sashiko Workshops. Here is the overview of my workshop schedules.

(Updated: September 27th)

 

September

 

November

 

December

 

Online Sashiko Workshop

I am working on scheduling with the preferences from potential participants. Your feedback with preference will help me to schedule it in October or November.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_FhpQGLrkh1wZInl4e-uz_uu0GDJrQKPG952TR2UYL_XB7g/viewform?usp=sf_link

 

 

 

Sashiko Stories| Sashiko Updates Fall 2018 Vol.3

 

It was a nice surprise that people are interested in my stories regarding Sashiko. An interesting childhood with Sashiko, I kind of had a barrier that not many people wouldn’t like to listen to my stories related to Sashiko. If someone is waiting for me, I will enjoy updating my stories on Youtube Channel. If you have any topics you would like me to cover, please leave the comment here so I can talk about it as a “Sashiko Story”.

 

Sashiko Workshops September 2018

Sashiko Workshops September 2018 |Quick Update

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I had the month of August as a “Workshop Free month” to focus on my Sashiko Projects. It was a very good opportunity and now it is about time to start another series of Sashiko Workshops. Here is a quick update of Sashiko Workshops September 2018.

 

Although I was about to advertise on this website before they are sold out, some of the workshops are already full, and some even have a waiting list. I feel very fortunate to have many people interested in Sashiko. I am looking forward to meeting you there, at each location.

 

A quick look for the Sashiko Workshops September 2018

 

Sashiko Workshop @ NJMQG

I offer the Sashiko Stitching workshop as the part of NJMQG workshop program. It was designed mostly for the member of NJMQG, and all the seats are sold out. If you are a part of Quilt Guild or other organization interested in Sashiko, please contact me for the “custom-adjusted yet traditional” workshop opportunity.

You may find the sample fee and structures on this blog post.

Arranging Sashiko Workshop | Bring Sashiko to your group.

 

Sashiko Workshop @ Purl Soho

I offer the well-organized Sashiko Workshop at the beautiful crafting store in Soho neighborhood.

Purl Soho is one of a very few stores that carry our Natural Dye Sashiko Thread. I am so happy to share my experience and technique in the well-known store for craft lovers. (I received a new that the workshop is full and has a waiting list now. Please contact Purl Soho for the details.)

 

Also, check the beautiful thread that Sashi.Co & Keiko Futatsuya exclusively dyed for them with Indigo.

https://www.purlsoho.com/hand-dyed-sashiko-embroidery-thread.html

 

 

Sashiko (Introductory) Workshop @ Japan Society

Our goal is to share the beautiful culture of Sashiko. Yes, ideally, I would need at least 3 hours to teach you the technique to enjoy Sashiko as much as we do, I am very happy to share the introductory Sashiko and its culture to the many people who are related to Japan Society NYC, which has been a symbol of mutual understandings between the USA and Japan.

It is my honor to serve as a teacher to share some of the Japanese cultures.

(I found out that the workshop is full at this point and no waiting list…)

 

https://www.japansociety.org/event/sashiko-japanese-embroidery

 

 

Sashiko Workshop & Stitching on Denim Workshop @ Tatter Blue Library

The last, but not the least workshop I have in September is with Tatter Blue Library. In this workshop, we focus on the Sashiko Stitching on the Denim. In the morning section, the participant will learn the basic and core of Sashiko Stitching. After a quick break, we all will work on the denim pants or jackets the participants bring.

It is strongly recommended to participate in both workshops in one day. 7 hours of intensive stitching experience will level you up to enjoy the Sashiko Denim Stitching on your own garment. Would you like to make a denim like a photo below? It is the workshop for you.

 

Sashiko Workshops September 2018

 

Registration Link: Please ask Tatter Blue Library for the detail

https://www.tatter.org/sashiko-stitching/

https://www.tatter.org/sashiko-on-denim/

 

*The “Sashiko on Denim Workshop” has a prerequisite of “Traditional Sashiko Workshop” or Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic) offered fully by Atsushi Futatsuya.

 

 

After Sashiko Workshops September 2018

Even after Sashiko Workshops September 2018, the workshop in 2018 continues. We are working on scheduling one Sashiko Workshop in October (Probably 10/13 & 10/14) in Brooklyn. One weekend of Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic) in TriBeCa, NYC, November 17th and 18th.

 

Once we know the detail, we will introduce it first on Instagram, then a newsletter, then a blog post. Please follow our SNS account and subscribe the newsletter from the sidebar.

 

Sashiko Workshop
I am looking forward to meeting & seeing you!

 

Sashiko Alumni Interview Caroline Cover

Sashiko Alumni Interview Caroline | Sashiko on Ordinary Cloth

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We are very happy to introduce Caroline, an amazing Sashiko (and more) artist working with ordinary fashion and creative Sashiko Stitching. Here is a beautiful Sashiko Alumni Interview Caroline.

Many participants in my Sashiko Workshop mention that it is impossible to get the stitching speed as I do. I always reply to them that if they practice properly for some time, they all will get the similar speed within 2 years or so, probably much sooner. She is a great example of learning the appropriate technique and keep “producing” many Sashiko arts. I am so proud of her.

 

We sincerely thank Caroline to be the first alumni to answer the interviews. Please enjoy “Sashiko Alumni Interview Caroline”. (This is a part of Sashiko Alumni Interview Series.)

 

Sashiko Alumni Interview Caroline

Sashiko Alumni Interview Caroline

 

 

When did you start being interested in Sashiko?

I don’t remember exactly! At some point in the last few years, I started seeing various classes being offered in sashiko, and it looks so beautiful that I decided I wanted to learn.

 

What is your passion for Sashiko?

I find the stitching to be meditative – I am a knitter, and doing sashiko puts me in a similar mind space, one I find to be very beneficial for my state of mind. I also like the planning of a sashiko project, which can be quite mathematical and precise (depending on what pattern I am stitching). I don’t think it’s an accident that I’m drawn to sashiko because of both the precision and the meditation aspects, as I find both are important to all the craft work I do.

 

In addition, I love vintage fabrics and vintage clothing, and I love indigo, and I love natural fibers, so those things combine to bring new life to old garments and fabrics.

 

The recycling of old fabrics and clothing is especially important to me; lately, I’ve been buying old shirts at the thrift store and doing sashiko stitching on them, thus making a generic item of clothing into a one-of-a-kind piece. Falling in love with our clothing and customizing our clothing and realizing the importance of handwork is the way to get beyond fast, cheap fashion.

 

I also like the traditions inherent in sashiko, stitching patterns that have been in use for centuries, creating “boro” as the Japanese have been doing for centuries.

 

What did you think of Atsushi’s Workshop?

Atsushi is a great teacher, not only in how to do sashiko but also in the excitement he has for ideas and projects. He’s so open-minded about what sashiko can be and how it can be used. He knows the tradition and teaches the tradition, and yet he gets inspired by how sashiko can be pushed to go beyond the tradition.

 

Plus it’s amazing to say that I learned sashiko from a member of a family that has been doing it for generations!

 

What inspires you when you work on your Sashiko Project?

I get inspired by seeing my project develop slowly, learning little things along the way, improving my technique. Stitching gives me time to ruminate on the next part of the project, or maybe on my next project, or on other creative ideas.

 

What is Sashiko for you?

My simple definition of sashiko is making running stitches with cotton thread – and what I like about this definition is its openness, its ability to encompass traditional stitching patterns, the making of boro, and lots of things beyond. My goal is to incorporate sashiko into other projects, figuring out how to mix sashiko with sewing, quilting, embroidery, knitting, and other crafts in a way that is new and beautiful.

 

 

[ End of Sashiko Alumni Interview Caroline ]
 

Photo Gallery of Caroline’s Achievement

Sashiko Alumni Interviews

Sashiko Alumni Interviews | Great Sashiko from our Alumni

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It has been almost 2 years since I had offered the first Sashiko Workshop in NYC. It is my pleasure to meet all of the participants with a great passion for Sashiko. I always wanted to make a community where we can get together and share the on-going Sashiko Project. The community I dreamed of is getting formed a little by little. In 2018, I had chances to see some Sashiko Alumni and get so impressed by their achievement. Sashiko Alumni Interviews. This is one of my biggest project & achievements in 2018.

 

Outside of my “Traditional” Box

I keep mentioning there is no such a thing as “Right” or “Wrong” Sashiko. Sashiko was too ordinary needlework for the ordinary Japanese before the industrial revolution. I try to be as creative as I can when I enjoy the Sashiko Stitching. Sashiko & Denim is one of my conclusion for the non-traditional Sashiko Stitching.

 

Regardless of my willingness to be open-minded, the tradition I was “forced” to follow restrict my imagination and creativity. Our Sashiko Alumni do not have the limitation of what I have subconsciously. They learn the basic & core & traditional Sashiko from me and collaborate to what they are passionate about. Their achievements always inspire me. Ever since I enjoyed the Sashiko Alumni Sashiko work, I sincerely wanted to share their work on this website.

 

There we go as Sashiko Alumni Interviews. I plan to introduce their views with many photos.

 

Sashiko Alumni Interview Sharon

Contents of Sashiko Alumni Interviews

 

We send a list of brief questions regarding Sashiko and Sashiko Workshop experience with us. It is our biggest happiness to see the Alumni’s Sashiko achievement. In the advanced workshop (Hitomezashi Workshop) or Sashiko Gathering after the initial Sashiko Stitching Workshop (Core & Basic), some alumni bring their own Sashiko achievements. They are all unique and beautifully done.

 

I encourage the students to be open-minded. In the workshop, I teach the traditional technique with many stories based on the tradition. It is welcomed to practice the traditional stitching as you progress your project. At the same time, I am very interested in a “Sashiko’s possibility” by the Sashiko Alumni integrating their own culture and what they learned from me.

 

In Sashiko Alumni Interviews, I ask 5 questions below:

  1. When did you start being interested in Sashiko?
  2. What is your passion for Sashiko?
  3. What did you think of Atsushi’s Workshop?
  4. What inspires you when you work on your Sashiko project?
  5. What is Sashiko for you?

 

With our Sashiko Alumni interviews on these questions, I believe we can introduce what Sashiko really is. I am very excited about sharing these.

 

The Sashiko Alumni who interviewed

 

Please find a link to the individual interview. You may find your own favorite style. They are all different, and they are all fantastic.

  • Caroline Green  (Coming Soon)

 

Sashiko Almuni Interview

 

 

 

I am asking the Sashiko Alumni to spare their precious time to answer the interviews. Please wait for the updates. The articles will be a good benchmark for you to understand what you potentially can do after taking our Sashiko Workshops. I will teach you the basic & tradition. After the workshop, it is up to you to create completely “one-of-a-kind” Sashiko work.

 

Amazing! Enjoy Sashiko!!