3-Day Workshop with Japanese Sashiko Artisan Atsushi Futatsuya

In this unique 3-Day Workshop with Japanese Sashiko Artisan Atsushi Futatsuya, participants will immerse themselves in the rich tradition of Japanese Sashiko stitching. Whether you’re new to Sashiko or an experienced stitcher, this intensive workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn not only the technical skills but also the cultural, historical, and meditative aspects of this beautiful art form.

3-Day Workshop Currently Scheduled

3-Day Workshop: [Core & Essence] to [Application & Practice] at Aya Fiber Studio in FL.

Fri, Mar 7, 2025, 9:00 AM EST – Sun, Mar 9, 2025, 4:00 PM EDT

What You Will Gain from This 3-Day Workshop:

  1. Master Core Sashiko Techniques
    On Day 1, you will build a strong foundation by mastering the essential techniques of Sashiko. You’ll learn to create rhythmic, even stitches, focusing on Unshin (needle movement)—a fundamental aspect of Sashiko. Atsushi will guide you through posture, the correct use of thimbles and needles, and how to create beautiful, consistent stitches. These skills will serve as the building blocks for the rest of the workshop.
  2. Hands-On Experience with Real Sashiko Projects
    Starting on Day 2, you will apply the techniques you’ve learned to actual projects. You’ll work on personal garments, learning how to transfer patterns, prepare fabric, and use Sashiko for mending and decorative stitching. You’ll also explore Boro, a traditional patchwork technique, gaining the ability to create unique and striking pieces from repaired fabrics.
  3. Explore Advanced Sashiko Styles Like Hitomezashi
    On Day 3, you’ll dive deeper into Hitomezashi, a complex and visually striking variation of Sashiko. Atsushi will teach you how to design and stitch Hitomezashi patterns, providing a deeper understanding of this advanced technique. By the end of the session, you’ll be able to confidently apply this style to your own textile projects, adding new creative possibilities to your Sashiko repertoire.
  4. Gain Cultural Insight and a Deeper Understanding of Sashiko
    Atsushi will share the rich history and cultural significance of Sashiko throughout the workshop. You’ll learn about its origins, its evolving role in Japanese culture, and the philosophy that underpins this meditative art. This deeper cultural understanding will enrich your practice, allowing you to approach Sashiko with a mindful and appreciative perspective.
  5. Learn from a True Sashiko Master
    Working directly with Atsushi, a third-generation Sashiko artisan, provides a unique learning experience. His expert guidance and personal feedback will help you refine your technique and enhance your understanding of the art. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have not only improved your skills but gained confidence in creating beautiful Sashiko work on your own.
  6. A Complete Sashiko Toolset for Continued Practice
    The workshop includes a curated supply package of authentic Japanese materials, handpicked by Atsushi to ensure you have everything you need to succeed. From high-quality Sashiko threads to fabrics and tools, the kit will allow you to fully immerse yourself in Sashiko during the workshop and continue your practice long after.
  7. Inspiration for Future Projects
    This workshop is designed to inspire your creativity, offering ideas and guidance for future Sashiko projects. You’ll learn how to incorporate Sashiko into your daily life—whether through mending favorite garments or creating new designs. Atsushi will offer insights on how to approach new projects, helping you make Sashiko a mindful and creative outlet.
  8. A Supportive, Hands-On Learning Environment
    The workshop offers a friendly and supportive setting where you can ask questions, get feedback, and enjoy hands-on practice. By the end of the three days, you will have created several pieces, developed a refined understanding of Sashiko, and learned how to incorporate this traditional art form into your creative practice.

3-Day Workshop with Japanese Sashiko Artisan

Key Takeaways:

  • Master essential Sashiko techniques: Gain expert guidance in rhythmic stitching, proper tool use, and traditional patterns.
  • Apply Sashiko to real projects: Learn practical techniques for mending and embellishing your own garments.
  • Explore advanced styles: Develop proficiency in Hitomezashi, an intricate and visually striking variation of Sashiko.
  • Cultural immersion: Understand the rich history and philosophy of Sashiko to deepen your connection with this art form.
  • Complete toolset: Receive all necessary materials for Sashiko practice, ensuring you can continue exploring the art after the workshop.
  • Personalized instruction: Benefit from hands-on support and personal feedback from a master Sashiko artisan.

This 3-Day Workshop with Japanese Sashiko Artisan Atsushi Futatsuya offers a rare and immersive experience for anyone passionate about Japanese textile arts. Over the course of this intensive 3-Day Workshop with Japanese Sashiko Artisan, participants will have the opportunity to work closely with Atsushi, a master of traditional Sashiko stitching. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will help you develop a deeper understanding of this ancient craft.

The 3-Day Workshop with Japanese Sashiko Artisan is more than just a sewing class—it’s a journey into the rich cultural heritage and philosophy behind Sashiko. You’ll learn not only the technical aspects of stitching but also the meditative and mindful practice that makes Sashiko so unique. By the end of the workshop, you’ll walk away with not only enhanced stitching skills but also a newfound appreciation for the beauty and history of Japanese textile arts. This is a rare chance to engage directly with an artisan and to truly experience the transformative power of Sashiko.

 

Online Class is also available

Sashiko Mending Jeans / How I enjoy Sashiko

When I start introducing Sashiko in English about 10 years ago, the word of SASHIKO wasn’t popular among the general public. People in patchworking and quilting were eager to learn the Sashiko stitching techniques. I remember my challenges to try to reach out to quilting and patchworking enthusiastic people. Recently, I meet new people with the knowledge of Sashiko, and these people come across to Sashiko throughout mending. Sashiko Mending Jeans are especially popular among the new fashion.

People in patchworking and quilting were eager to learn the Sashiko stitching techniques. I remember my challenges to try to reach out to quilting and patchworking enthusiastic people.

 

Sashiko in Fashion Industry.

Recently, I meet new people with the knowledge of Sashiko, and these people come across to the word of SASHIKO throughout mending the fabric. Especially, Sashiko Mending Jeans seems to be popular, I assume. Interestingly, it is “Mending jeans with Sashiko” that I enjoy the most in Sashiko.

 

Sashiko Mending Jeans -1

 

Sashiko Mending Jeans as a cool item

I was raised in the Sashiko family. Sashiko was always around me. However, I didn’t feel comfortable wearing most of Sashiko products in daily life simply because it wasn’t fashionable in the 21st century. As the side project of my regular Sashiko work, I started working on my garments like denim jeans,  jacket, cotton shirts and so on. Then, I realize how cool Sashiko can be. It was around 2010 ~ 2011, then the time of realization how important it is to pass down Sashiko to the next generation comes to me after the earthquake in Northeast of Japan.

 

 

Sashiko is a process, not the result

Here are some photos of my jeans that I am working on mending, and wearing pretty much every day. Sashiko is not only the result. I start realizing the Sashiko is the process of mending, repairing, and reinforcing the fabric. Sashiko Mending Jeans will not be the end product since it requires repetitive patching and stitching. When I sell my Sashiko mending jeans, I would like to teach the buyer how to Sashiko it by himself/herself. Anyway, here is a serious of photos, as of today.

 

I did Sashiko mending on this jean a month ago

(I blogged it, too)

However, mending (sewing) means adding extra tension to the part of fabric without stitching. Therefore, the part without Sashiko thread starts getting torn. Then, I would need another mending project. This is why I say that Sashiko is the process, not the result. It is perfectly fine since it is fun doing it, and the more mending projects I would do, the Sashiko mending jeans get fashionable. (By the way, I believe “Boro” is the result of this repetitive mending with Sashiko. I am making Boro in future now!)

Sashiko Mending Jeans 2

 

A hole. Thinking how to make Sashiko stitching on

Sashiko Mending Jeans 3

I cover several methods of Sashiko mending in my workshop. It is a fun part for me to think what to do. I will update the result after I do Sashiko mending.

 

Preparing Sashiko fabric and matching it

Sashiko Mending Jeans 4

 

Although I haven’t started actual mending process, I have prepared the Sashiko fabric to patch. Using Japanese vintage fabric with Natural Dye Sashiko thread, it will be a fantastic match.

 

I have a plan to make a serious of tutorial… wait for the update and keep stimulating me by leaving comments or messages so I will get motivated a lot faster.

 

Thank you for reading.

Enjoy Sashiko!

 

 

 

 

How to transfer Sashiko Patterns on to the fabric

People often have a question how to transfer Sashiko patterns onto the fabric. Yes. Sashiko isn’t always about stitching. Preparing the fabric properly is a very important aspect of Sashiko.

Here is a tutorial how to transfer Sashiko Patterns by using a carbon paper

An easy and accurate way to transfer Sashiko patterns is to use a carbon (transfer) paper. Using proper tools will result in beautiful patterns on fabric. Here is a list of tools and supplies you need to follow this tutorial.

  • Fabric *1
  • Chakopee Carbon Paper (Transfer Paper) *2
  • Mylar Paper *3
  • Pattern *4
  • We, as Sashi.Co, mostly transfer pattern on the back side of fabric
  • We use Japanese Mylar paper. However, any Cello/Poly paper should work. It should be strong enough to hold the pressure (prevent being torn.)
  • A regular copy paper is fine. Since tracing require a strong pressure, the pattern paper will be discarded after a single usage. 

The necessary materials above are available on this website. Check the purchase list.

Layer fabric and papers in proper order

How to transfer Sashiko Patterns on to Fabric _1

How to transfer Sashiko Patterns on to Fabric _3

A video will explain about the layers well, but here is the order of the layer. The number is the order to place the fabric and/or papers on the table. (Bottom to Up after completing it)

  1. Fabric
  2. Chakopee Paper (Shinning side facing down to fabric)
  3. Mylar paper
  4. pattern

Securing the all 4 layers. A tracing process with strong pressure can shift any layers.

How to transfer Sashiko Patterns on to Fabric _4

Make sure to pin the 4 layers you made now. I usually use safety pins, but any kind of pin should work. Even clips would be fine as long as the layers are secured from shifting. Another tip is to NOT to pin it at one corner so that you can check the pattern in the middle of tracing without shifting the pattern.

Transfer Sashiko pattern by Tracing

How to transfer Sashiko Patterns on to Fabric _5

I usually use a red-colored ballpoint pen to distinguish the line I traced. You may use any kind of pen (a pencil may be weak for the required pressure), and tracing tools such as a tracing wheel. Make sure to trace strongly enough to push the tracing paper onto the fabric. You may check the results in the process untiil you understand that required pressure. The pressure is depended on the Cello paper you choose.

Check the result. Support the weak transfer.

How to transfer Sashiko Patterns on to Fabric _6

You should see the white line on the fabric. (You may see different color if you purchase the different tracing paper.)

If you find some lines with weaker chalk transfer, then use a white pencil (or chalk pencil) to support the line. In the process of Sashiko, the pattern may vanish because of sweat from hands or friction of fabric. Use the pencil as you need.

And Sashiko Stitch!!

Sashiko Stitching

After that, Enjoy the Sashiko Stitching!

Keep it in your mind that I usually transfer the pattern on the back of the fabric. Since the patterns will be washed away, you can, of course, transfer the pattern on the front side. It is up to you, but for some reasons, I keep transferring the patterns on the back.

Leave the comments on Youtube Video if you have questions about transferring the pattern. I will try my best to answer it.

2017 Sashiko Workshops | Start Sashiko with us

Upcycle Stitches LLC offer various Sashiko workshops in NYC/Brooklyn area. The list for the year of 2017 Sashiko Workshops is available on this website. The workshops are the hands-on opportunity to learn Sashiko techniques from experienced Sashiko artist, Atsushi Futatsuya. Visit the web to register your seat here.

“Curious Corner / Sashiko Workshops”

 

2017 Sashiko Workshops

Read more about our Hands-on Sashiko Workshops

Read this article to learn what you can expect to our HandsOn Sashiko Workshops.

Our goal through this website is to share our techniques and information. However, it is the best way to meet the instructors and learn from them. The workshops aren’t like the lecture you would just listen to the talking. You would move your hands to learn how to use the Sashiko thimble and needles, The instructor will sit down next to you and put hands on your hands to teach if necessary.

 

Although there is not “right” technique for the Sashiko stitching, we are proud of our accumulation of techniques and its uniqueness. I believe that, once you master our stitching method, the stitching process will speed up and you can enjoy more Sashiko project. As a result, your stitching skill will improve. The more you enjoy the Sashiko project, the better your stitching looks.

 

Contact us if you have any questions regarding Sashiko Workshops.

 

The year of 2017 Sashiko Workshops

Now Registering

Workshops at Calliope NYC

Location: 

Calliope
349 West 12th St. (between Washington & Greenwich Sts)
West Village, NYC

  • Saturday, June 24
  • Sunday, June 25

 

Completed

Location:

@ 20 Grattan St. Brooklyn, NY 11206

  • Friday, Feb 24
  • Saturday, Feb 25 
  • Monday, Feb 27
*Available only for those who have taken Sashiko Stitching class. 

 

@ Workshop at Pioneer Works (Red Hook, Brooklyn)

Location:

159 Pioneer St. Brooklyn, NY

pioneerworks.org 

  • Sunday, Feb 26