Sashiko, meaning ‘little stab’ is the Japanese art of stitching beautiful patterns using running stitch. Often used to add strength, texture and warmth to old garments, Sashiko has become synonymous with complex repeating patterns and precise stitching. Although most people will be familiar with the traditional white stitches on indigo fabric, sashiko thread actually comes in many shades, allowing for a wonderful variety of colourful designs.

In this class you will mark up, stitch and assemble one or two Sashiko coasters to take home.

This class uses Moyozashi Sashiko (pattern sashiko) which uses dashed line running stitches of even size where the stitches never touch each other to create the patterns.

You will choose from either a plastic sashiko template or one of the tutor’s own designs and transfer your pattern onto a vintage indigo square to stitch.

Once your stitching is completed, you will be shown how to attach a vintage piece of fabric to the back of your sashiko square on the sewing machine and learn to hand close your coaster using slip stitch and finally top stitch the coaster.

 

In this class you will learn:

– How to transfer a Moyozashi sashiko embroidery pattern using a variety of different techniques
– How to use and keep Japanese sashiko thread without it getting tangled
– How to tie the quilters knot
– How to tie an end knot that sits very close to where the thread leaves the fabric on the back
– How to stitch neatly in the style of Sashiko
– How to sew together your piece to a backing fabric, including hand sewn slipstitch and top stitch

 

Rob will bring examples of his work as well as a number of reference books for inspiration to continue your practice at home.

In the afternoon Rob is offering a natural follow on class of “Freestyle Boro and Sashiko stitching“ . We offer a discount when booking the full day option!

Basic hand sewing skills advised. If you are new to hand sewing we recommend attending our “Grandma’s Hands” Introduction to hand sewing repairs (fabric items) first.

 

About the Tutor: The class is taught by Rob Jones, a textiles designer who takes his inspiration from Japanese textiles disciplines including sashiko, boro, shibori and katagami stenciling. Rob’s Sashiko & Boro mending work was featured as inspiration for contestants on the semi-final of the Great British Sewing Bee in 2022 and he regularly visits Japan to travel, refresh his skills and purchase authentic Japanese threads and tools for use in his classes.

TIME: 11am – 1:30pm

Class Size: Max 8 students

Materials Included: Vintage indigo fabric and a vintage backing fabric, a sashiko needle, a skein of sashiko thread (in a choice of colours) are provided and are yours to keep after the class.
All tools and equipment needed to take the class will be available for use.

PRICE: £55 or £100 (booking the full day – two sessions) 

HOW TO BOOK: You can BOOK ONLINE(+ Eventbrite Booking Fee) E_mail or Call us on 020 7275 8043 (to avoid online booking fee!) Our  Booking Terms & Conditions

Please Note: The workshop will take place in the Fabrications studio (which is downstairs from the shop via 12 steps)