Sashiko is a form of Japanese folk embroidery using a variation of a running stitch to create a patterned background. Traditionally made in geometric patterns with white cotton thread on indigo blue fabric, the designs include straight or curved lines of stitching arranged in a repeating pattern that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Requiring few materials, Sashiko projects can go anywhere and have saved the sanity of many a soccer mom, public transportation commuter and world traveler. And it's nice to have a project at home that you can pick up and put away at a moment's notice. Catch your meditative moments when you can!
While you can create large decorative pieces with Sashiko, settling in with projects that reflect Sashiko's roots in creating and repairing decorative objects seems natural. And with our hectic schedules, the weekend is a good time to unwind, reflect and recharge with projects that you can not only start, but finish in a few hours! Here are some of our favorite weekend-friendly Sashiko projects.