The Art of Sashiko: Stitching a Traditional Zokin

Sashiko is a traditional Japanese stitching practice rooted in thrift, repair, and making everyday objects last. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn the fundamentals of sashiko while creating a zokin—a traditional Japanese cleaning cloth made from layered textiles and designed to become more durable through stitching. Using a pre-assembled zokin, we'll focus on learning the essential techniques of sashiko, including the distinctive running stitch and a traditional jujizashi (cross stitch) pattern. Along the way, you'll gain practical skills that can be applied to visible mending, embroidery, and creative textile upcycling projects. In this workshop you'll: Learn the fundamentals of sashiko stitching and pattern marking Practice starting and stopping stitches without knots Explore techniques for stitching through multiple layers of fabric for strength and durability Learn how to work with sashiko needles, thread, and thimbles Complete a traditional zokin using a classic sashiko pattern You'll leave with a finished zokin, sashiko skills you can apply to future projects, and materials and instructions for transforming worn towels, t-shirts, sweaters, and other household textiles into useful stitched cloths at home. All materials provided. No prior stitching experience required.