History

• Sashiko developed during the Edo period in Japan. This craft was not confined to a single town, but was practiced throughout Northern Japan. Sashiko decorated outer garments and uniforms of various sorts with embroidery patterns that could be quite simple or very elaborate. The craft fell out of use at the end of the Edo period around 1868.
  
  

Function

• Sashiko embroidery was not just attractive, it was also practical. Sashiko allowed multiple layers of fabric to be quilted together, providing an ideal fabric for outerwear. Today, sashiko is used for wall hangings, bags, home accessories and even kimonos. Sashiko may be worked on a single layer of fabric or multiple layers.
  
  

Materials

• You will need cotton or hemp fabric, embroidery floss, pearl cotton or sashiko thread, a long sashiko needle and a leather or metal sashiko thimble. Sashiko thread is a single, tightly twisted strand with a low sheen; however, pearl cottons or cotton embroidery floss also can be used. The sashiko needle is quite long, allowing you to create smooth and even running stitches.
  
  

Templates and Stencils

• You can purchase pre-printed quilting stencils to work sashiko. These are a good choice for a beginner, but advanced embroiderers may find them limiting. Use transfer stencil paper and a tool to trace a pattern onto your sashiko fabric. If needed, go over the transfer lines with tailor's chalk for a clearer pattern.
  
  

Embroidering

• Cut a length of thread long enough to go from one end of the section to the other on your sashiko embroidery. Work running stitches in a 3:2 proportion. The longer stitch should be on the right side of the fabric. Pull the needle through, leaving enough slack to prevent puckering. Continue until each section is complete, using a neat knot at the end of each thread.