Sashiko embroidery thread

Japanese Sashiko embroidery thread

Sashiko is a Japanese embroidery, Sashiko meaning “little stabs”. Although it is now principally ornamental, it was originally purely practical: it was used in rural areas to reinforce wear and tear on work clothes. It was also used for assembling worn clothes together to make new garments. Most Sashiko motifs represent stylized designs inspired by flowers, plants, animals and nature in general. Traditionally, this method was embroidered with white thread on indigo fabric, but since it has become more decorative, other colours are now used. In principle, the motifs are designed to be followed simply and economize on thread.