Sashiko-Ori with Beth Ross Johnson (JUN 9-13)

June 9 - 13 (TUES-SAT, 9 AM–4 PM) Sashiko-ori (woven sashiko designs) is based on the hitomezashi style of Japanese sashiko stitching. This weave structure is basically a supplementary warp and weft, and basic possibilities have been mined in weaving traditions from Peru, Japan and Europe. Professional weaver, co-author of a book on Sashiko-ori, and lifelong student of Asian art, instructor Beth Ross Johnson will take you on a journey through the history and structure of this weave and how to take design work a step further. You’ll start with a basic, but very versatile threading to try out different types of patterns. Then you’ll choose one of these patterns (or another design direction to explore based on your interests) and weave a scarf. Cotton warps will be provided for the first sampler project, and students will then work with Harrisville Designs line of 100% woolen yarns in 64 colors for the second scarf project. You’ll also have the chance to do some added sashiko stitching along the way! Skill Level: Intermediate. Students must be proficient at dressing a loom, have experience warping a loom with cotton, and be able to read a draft independently. Materials List: Notebook, slippers or socks, pens, pencils, scissors. *If you reserve a room in the Boarding House, your room fee is due at the end of your stay. Please scroll down to read more important information about the Cheshire Mills Boarding House. Cancellation Deadline: 4/14/2026 MEET YOUR TEACHER BETH ROSS JOHNSON is a weaver, teacher and workshop leader living in Black Mountain, NC. A lifelong fascination with Asian art led to an interest in Japanese textiles and she has had two extensive stays in Japan to study kasuri (ikat weaving and dyeing) and sakiori (rag weaving) with master weavers there. Other avenues of exploration have been sashiko stitching and nyoho-e (Zen stitching). Recent studies have been in the ikat traditions of Europe, influenced by the 18th century wave of Orientalism on the continent, and woven structures like sashiko-ori and kasuri-ori that mimic hand stitching and ikat processes. She is now weaving and teaching full-time and is co-author of a book on Sashiko-ori.