Sashiko (刺し子, literally “little stabs”) is a form of decorative reinforcement stitching (or functional embroidery) from Japan. Traditionally used to reinforce points of wear or to repair worn places or tears with patches, this running stitch technique is often used for purely decorative purposes in quilting and embroidery.
Sashiko embroidery was used to strengthen the homespun clothes of olden times. Worn out clothes were pieced together to make new garments by using simple running stitches. These clothes increased their strength with this durable embroidery. Modern day sashiko stitching is not restricted to the traditional indigo colored fabric but uses a variety of color combinations, and it is considered a beautiful surface embellishment for fabrics.
From the instructor, Maday Delgado: “It’s a form of wisdom if you will, about sustainability, self sufficiency and art form all rolled into one. I teach it as a mindful technique of meditation, art and mindfulness. It is a way to reconnect with the art as well as our minds.”
