Let an expert teach you the traditional craft of Japanese country quilting, “the perfect simple, low-cost hobby to get you off your phone” (Slate). Sashiko, the traditional Japanese technique of needlework quilting, uses a simple running stitch to create beautiful patterns ideal for patchwork, quilting, and embroidery. Sashiko, pronounced shash-ko, means “stab stitch” and refers to the small running stitch that is worked to build up hundreds of distinctive decorative patterns. This book begins by exploring the origins of the technique: to strengthen clothes and to make them warmer. The “Getting Started” section describes everything you need to begin stitching, including selecting suitable fabrics and threads, marking out patterns on the fabric, as well as the stitching technique itself. Ten project chapters show how easy it is to use sashiko patterns to make beautiful items for the home. The sashiko patterns are described in step-by-step detail in the pattern library, showing you exactly how to achieve each individual pattern with ease. Finally, a gallery of work by contemporary Japanese textile artists provides extra inspiration. “A book I would suggest anyone getting started with sashiko would benefit from having in their library . . . Susan Briscoe writes with an obvious fondness for Japanese culture.” —The Ardent Thread

Sashiko: the needlework form of both decorative and functional embroidery developed in Japan many centuries ago. With just four key materials needed--needle, thread, thimble and fabric--Sashiko stitches have long been a favorite for quilting and embroidery. Today, the style is popular in the visible mending movement because of its simplicity, efficiency and aesthetic appeal. With Simply Sashiko, you can apply centuries-old Japanese techniques to your home, clothing and accessories in a fun, modern way. This book gives you simple but thorough lessons on the ins and outs (literally) of 36 different sashiko patterns, plus designs for stylish home and personal accessories so you can try them out, including: Decorative pouches Little purses Placemats and napkins Covered brooches and buttons And much more! Step-by-step instructions and detailed color photos show you everything from transferring patterns to perfecting your stitch technique. User-friendly templates help you keep your motifs balanced and even, while color combinations ranging from the traditional white and indigo to multicolored threads on primary colored backgrounds inspire you to get creative with these basic stitches.

A collection of boro-inspired projects and techniques which celebrates this traditional Japanese textile and its relevance to the modern sewer and quilter. Learn about the history of boro and how it is being revived for a new audience using contemporary fabrics including denim, linen and shibori tie dye as well as sashiko and other embroidery stitches. The word boro comes from the Japanese boroboro meaning something tattered or repaired. It refers to textiles that have been mended or patched together for utilitarian, not decorative, purposes to make the fabric stronger and warmer, and to mend torn and threadbare areas. The techniques section includes a short stitch directory with traditional stitches (running stitch and applique) and contemporary stitches (herringbone stitch, blanket stitch, chain stitch and whipped running stitch). Other techniques include instructions on improvisational patchwork; applique: raw, turned edge and reverse; darning techniques and methods for distressing and ageing fabrics to achieve an authentic boro finish.

Fall in love with boro & sashiko stitching 30+ authentic stitch patterns, 9 projects. Combine hand stitches to create dramatic, unique designs and learn to embrace imperfection, admiring the utilitarian beauty of every stitch. “Shibaguyz” Shannon and Jason Mullett-Bowlsby invite you to try your hand at boro, the traditional Japanese art of mending and quilting, and more than 30 authentic sashiko designs. Stitching lessons are true to tradition, inspired by historical works by Japanese masters. This guide in sashiko and boro includes patterns, stitch how-tos, and needle-threading and knotting tips. Put your handwork to good use with 9 contemporary projects like a sashiko sampler wallhanging, reversible knot bag, or a kimono-inspired jacket! With step-by-step instructions, even beginners can embrace the art of visible mending. Hand sew 30+ authentic sashiko patterns with best-selling authors the Shibaguyz Recreate the traditional art of boro (mending textiles) with 9 useful projects from jackets and bags to home decor Read stitch charts, mark fabrics, and thread your needle with tips from the pros

"Learn the stunning art of sashiko stitching with this comprehensive guide that's packed with inspirational ideas. 20 appealing projects including brooches, greetings cards, notebook covers, bedding, a door curtain and wall-hanging. Includes a Pattern Library with an array of traditional sashiko patterns to create your own unique designs and projects." --

Discover the beautiful Japanese pattern darning technique kogin and how it can be used to create stunning stitched and quilted projects. Kogin, a counted embroidery technique, is a variation of the popular Japanese embroidery technique sashiko and is rapidly becoming as popular as its 'big sister'. Japanese embroidery expert, Susan Briscoe, has compiled a collection of over 60 pattern charts and 12 accompanying projects to create The Ultimate Kogin Collection, following on from her previous title The Ultimate Sashiko Sourcebook. The projects range from small and very accessible items to larger projects, with step by step instruction to help you: Try out new stitches and use your samples to create pretty framed pictures Embellish fabric and sew it into cute pouches and gadget cosies Create Japanese-inspired homewares with embroidered linens Choose individual motifs for small projects like little coin purses Use your stitch samples to create handmade greetings cards Try these projects or use the patterns to create your own unique makes!