Introduction to Japanese sashiko and boro stitching - full day workshop

Learn or refresh your skills in Japanese sashiko and boro decorative hand embroidery, using authentic materials, templates and tools to create bold stitch patterns.

A little about sashiko and boro and the workshop

Sashiko, literally translates as "little stabs", is the age-old Japanese technique of visibly mending textiles by adding dense hand stitches to worn areas, thereby strengthening them. Adding patches of fabric is called boro, and when overstitched by hand in decorative patterns we are personalising the textile and adding to its story. You'll learn the humble origins of sashiko mending, the difference between sashiko and boro, and the many practical and creative applications of the technique.

Sashiko uses simple straight running stitches which anyone can do, but they can be combined in attractive and intricate patterns inspired by nature and the home to add personal meaning to our belongings.

In this workshop we'll use a combination of informal sashiko designs and templates to transfer simple sashiko stitch patterns to fabric to create a decorative embroidery. This is a skills workshop in which you'll practice the basic techniques of freeform sashiko, and move on to incorporate Moyozashi (large scale patterns) in both straight and curved lines, and also Hitomezashi (single stitch designs) which create more intricate patterns. Depending on your skill level and the complexity of your designs you may not finish your items during the workshop, but everyone will take their sewing home with materials, tools and the inspiration they need to continue working on it. Once finished your pieces could be displayed in a frame, used as coasters, or sewn onto fabric (clothing/tote bag/blanket/etc).

All materials will be provided, but please feel free to bring your own favourite sewing supplies and tools.

The workshop is suitable for complete beginners or those wanting to refresh their hand-sewing skills. Please note, you will need reasonable hand/finger mobility and eyesight.

A little about the instructor

Marianne is an upholsterer and sewing enthusiast with a lifelong background in textiles, embroidery, dressmaking, mending and upcycling.

She loves the simplicity, accessibility and mindfulness of sewing and believes that anyone can learn to sew and express themselves creatively through needle and thread.

Marianne can guide you in both practical and artistic methods of embroidery, and show you how to use sewing to make beautiful decorative items and also transfer these skills to extend the life of your clothes and textiles. Follow her on Instagram or Facebook @forminfabric