Sashiko
Basics of Sashiko
A workshop with the artist and tailor Carolin Kropff
“Others have been here before me, and I walk in their footsteps.” — Elie Wiesel
What is Sashiko:
The word sashiko means small stitches and is a utility stitch and quilting technique that has its roots in Japan. The forward stitches, which are as short as possible, were originally used to join two layers of fabric and at the same time to strengthen, make warmer and also repair the fabrics through the multitude of stitches. It is not only efficient, it is also decorative. That is why sashiko is also referred to as embroidery. However, there are significant differences from pure embroidery.
Using a simple cotton thread, a needle, and a willingness to abandon perfectionist ideals, sashiko is a needlework in which no two stitches are intentionally the same. The hand sewing method is called Unshin.
The rhythmic movement of the needle makes sashiko ideal for experiencing the mindfulness inherent in all handwork.
Famous representatives of sashiko are the boros, which were made with many of these small stitches over many generations. In the past, the garments were a sign of poverty, but today they enjoy cult status and are a symbol of the sustainable use of resources.
Sashiko is rightly experiencing a modern renaissance and is particularly popular in the slow-fashion-, upcycling- and slow-stitching-movements.
When:
Coming soon.
6 spots.
Registration here.
Costs:
45,-EUR
Discount for Quilting Bee and Liebe Deine Kleider members : 25,- EUR
All necessary materials and fabrics will be provided. Some tea and biscuits will give us the necessary energy.
No previous skills are necessary. The handling of needle and thread and the desire to experiment are helpful. Everyone is welcome!
In the three-hour workshop, you'll learn how to sew the necessary sewing ring yourself, gain your first experience with the hand sewing method Unshin, and become familiar with how sashiko patterns can be easily constructed.
By the end of the workshop, you'll have a good idea of the possibilities this centuries-old sewing has to offer, and you'll be prepared to apply and expand on what you've learned for your own projects.