What is Sashiko?

Sashiko is a traditional Japanese form of hand embroidery using simple running stitches to create geometric and decorative patterns, often used for reinforcing or decorating fabric.

Essential Tools & Materials

Item Description Notes
Sashiko Needle Long, thick needle with a sharp point Easier to push through thick fabric
Sashiko Thread Thick, durable cotton thread Usually white or indigo blue
Fabric Medium to heavy-weight cotton or linen Indigo-dyed fabrics popular
Embroidery Hoop Optional, keeps fabric taut Helps maintain even stitches
Scissors Sharp, small embroidery scissors For thread trimming
Fabric Marker Water or air erasable marking pen For pattern transfer

Suitable Fabrics

Fabric Type Weight Best Use Notes
Cotton Medium to heavy Traditional sashiko projects Durable, easy to stitch
Linen Medium Lightweight clothing Breathable and natural
Denim Heavy Visible mending, durable wear Requires stronger needles
Indigo-dyed Cotton Medium-heavy Authentic sashiko style Classic look

Thread Types & Colours

Thread Type Thickness Common Colours Notes
Sashiko Thread Thick cotton White, indigo blue Strong and slightly glossy
Perle Cotton Medium Variety of colors Alternative for sashiko
Embroidery Floss Fine Many colors Separate strands for thickness

Traditional Sashiko Patterns

Pattern Name Description Visual Style
Kikkō (Tortoise Shell) Hexagonal pattern symbolizing longevity Geometric, honeycomb-like
Asanoha (Hemp Leaf) Star-shaped, diamond pattern Sharp, angular
Seigaiha (Blue Ocean Waves) Overlapping arches resembling waves Rounded, flowing curves
Kōjitsunagi (Interlinked Triangles) Connected triangles forming lattice Angular and repeating
Shippo Tsunagi (Seven Treasures) Interlocking circles creating floral shapes Circular, overlapping motifs

Basic Sashiko Stitching Technique

Step Action Tips
1 Transfer pattern onto fabric Use fabric marker or tracing paper
2 Thread needle with about 18 inches of thread Avoid long threads to prevent tangling
3 Knot thread or leave tail to weave in Start with a small knot or no knot
4 Use running stitch along pattern lines Keep stitches about 3-5 mm long
5 Maintain even tension and stitch spacing Consistent stitches create neat patterns
6 Finish by weaving thread ends into back Secure and trim excess thread

Common Stitch Styles

Stitch Name Description Use
Running Stitch Even, spaced stitches along design line Foundation of sashiko patterns
Backstitch Stitches overlap for solid lines For outlines or reinforcement
Holbein Stitch Double running stitch creating solid lines Used for reversible stitching

Care & Maintenance

Step Instructions Notes
Hand wash preferred Use mild detergent, cold water Preserves thread and fabric
Air dry flat Avoid direct sunlight Prevents fading
Iron on low heat Use pressing cloth Protects embroidery
Store folded or rolled Keep in dry place Prevents creasing

Beginner Project Ideas

Project Type Fabric & Thread Pattern Suggestion Notes
Coasters Cotton & white thread Asanoha or Kikkō Small and quick
Tote Bags Denim & white thread Seigaiha Durable and decorative
Patch for Clothing Indigo cotton & thread Simple running stitch lines Adds texture and repairs
Pillow Covers Linen & colored thread Shippo Tsunagi Elegant and homey
Table Runners Cotton & indigo thread Kōjitsunagi Classic Japanese style

FAQ

Is sashiko embroidery only done with white thread?
Traditionally, yes — white on indigo is classic, but colored threads can be used creatively.

Can sashiko be machine embroidered?
It can, but hand stitching preserves the authentic look and texture.

What fabrics work best for sashiko?
Medium to heavyweight cotton or linen is ideal; denim is great for mending.

How long should stitches be?
3–5 mm stitches are typical for clean, even patterns.

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