The Art of Sashiko

Sashiko (刺し子) is a traditional Japanese form of decorative reinforcement stitching, which literally means “little stabs” or “little pierce.” Originally developed in rural Japan during the Edo period (1603–1868), Sashiko was both a practical and aesthetic craft used primarily by working-class families.Sashiko started as a functional embroidery technique. Farmers and fishermen would layer fabrics and stitch them together with simple running stitches to:Reinforce worn-out clothesRepair holes and extend garment lifeInsulate fabric for warmthSave materials through recycling