Sashiko Embroidery Masterclass: Traditional Japanese Techniques for Modern Sewing
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- In-depth Instruction; over 70 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Session 1: Introduction and Materials
18:09
A wide variety of materials can be used in Sashiko embroidery – many imported from Japan, and some you can find at the big box store. In this session we will talk about the types of supplies you will need, and the types of supplies you may want, to begin your exploration of sashiko.
Session 2: Prepping Fabric for Straight Line Patterns
7:20
Most sashiko patterns are geometric in nature – some have straight lines as their basis, some have curves. In this session we are going to focus on straight line or gridded patterns and learn how to mark them.
Session 3: Stitch Straight Line Patterns
17:23
Now we get to the stitching, which may be the easiest part! Sashiko patterns are based on a simple running stitch.
Session 4: Prepping Fabric for Curved Line Patterns
6:21
Many sashiko patterns have curved lines in them, based on circles or half circles. We have learned how to easily set up a grid and now will add some steps to get beautiful curves and waves.
Session 5: Stitching Curved Line Patterns
11:42
We got the basics of the running stitch down in Session 3, but now we have a couple of curveballs – pun intended! In this session we will stitch our semi-circle pattern and talk about changing directions.
Session 6: Boro Inspired Pieces
8:15
Boro refers to the technique of patching and mending textiles – especially garments – using running stitch or sashiko patterns, to get more use out of the original item. The layers of added fabric added durability and warmth, but the stitching gave beauty even though utility was the goal. Today we can use inspiration from Boro pieces in our own work.
Welcome to this class on Sashiko and Boro embroidery techniques. In this course, we’ll dive into the beautiful artistry behind these traditional Japanese stitching methods. Sashiko, meaning “little stabs,” involves simple yet elegant running stitches that create stunning geometric patterns, while Boro is a practice of mending and patching fabric with visible stitches, transforming worn textiles into functional works of art. By learning a bit about these historical techniques, modern stitchers can add a whole new stitch vocabulary to their work, whether creating art or upcycling clothing.
Mary Beth Temple
Mary Beth Temple is a long-time designer of knit, crochet and sewing patterns, and lover of any other type of craft that comes across her path! She can often be found crafting by the beach near her home in Wilmington, North Carolina, and makes no guarantees that there won’t be sand in her samples. With more than a dozen books to her name, Mary Beth is a prolific designer whose independent work can be found under her brand name Hooked for Life. You can check out her doings at HookedforLifePublishing.com/blog, and from there visit her various social media outlets.
Bonus materials available after purchase