Sashiko Fabrics and Samplers

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Sashiko quilting (Pronounced: SA-SHEE-KOE) is a form of quilting originating from Japan.

Centuries ago, Japanese peasants practised a running-stitch technique called "little stabs" to patch torn or worn clothes. Mending was vital as cloth and thread were scarce and therefore valuable.

When white cotton thread became available, this was used for patching indigo blue garments, and this gave Sashiko its distinctive appearance.

The oldest surviving item of sashiko-stitched clothing is from the Asuka period and is a Buddhist priest's robe. It was donated to a temple in 756.

Many Sashiko patterns were derived from Chinese designs, but just as many were developed by the Japanese themselves.

The artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760 – 1849) published the book New Forms for Design in 1824, and his designs have inspired many Sashiko patterns. (Information taken from en.wikipedia.org)

Also see our Sashiko Threads range