About
Learn the traditional Japanese technique for embellishing textiles -- Sashiko. Sashiko was used by the Japanese working class to extend the life of the fabric that they used for clothing and household textiles. Traditionally, even white stitches were sewn on dark blue cotton fabric to mend, strengthen and quilt the fiber. Over time, Sashiko evolved to become a beautiful fabric embellishment with striking patterns and figures using the same, simple technique of running stitches on textiles.
In this workshop, students will make the simple lined cotton drawstring bag that is used for a variety of occasions in Japan. You can use your bag to carry your sewing or Sashiko supplies.
Students will learn how to:
- transfer a Sashiko design to the fabric using stencils and templates;
- stitch the design in class;
- receive instructions for completing the bag at home or, for those certified on BARN’s Brother sewing machines, during the class or at a BARN open studio.
For inspiration, the instructor will bring Sashiko samples from her collection and share a slideshow of Sashiko and other Japanese stitching techniques.
Student Should Bring:
- Scissors,
- ballpoint pen,
- white wash-out marking pen or pencil,
- straight pins,
- 12” ruler.
- Optional: needle threader.
Details:
- Please note that for this class, cancellation requests received 14 days or less before the workshop start date will not be eligible for a refund or credit.
- The material fee of $35 is for fabric for bag and lining, cording, Sashiko thread and needle, transfer paper, Sashiko design templates, and use of Sashiko stencils during class.
- Students should wear comfortable work clothes.
- All skill levels welcome.
- Ages 14+ Welcome.
Instructor Bio:
Artist's Statement by Becky Scellato: "My love for Japanese textiles and crafts began in the 1960’s when my father was stationed in the Air Force in Okinawa. I learned Sashiko from a Japanese woman over 25 years ago and fell in love with the craft. It quickly became an all-consuming passion. Sashiko, an easy embroidery technique using a running stitch, is relaxing and fun, and creates a sense of peace while stitching.
Sashiko is elegance in simplicity. Since 2002, my husband and I have owned Shibori Dragon in University Place, which specializes in Asian fabrics, Japanese textiles, and Sashiko. I have been teaching and collecting historical Sashiko textiles for the past 20 years and have samples dating from the 1800s to modern day. I have designed Sashiko bags, table runners, Boro-inspired textiles, Block of the Month quilts, and wall hangings, many of which are featured in the classes that I teach."
