I Spent 18 Months Learning Sashiko Embroidery

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Well, it's been a long journey, but a very peaceful one!
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[@EliotChildress]

I’m currently living in japan and just wanna say this is beautiful. Also in terms of materials, don’t worry about it. The ones recommended in the book are likely not “fully traditional” they are what is workable and available. Just like with kimono, they are normally seen as silk today but the local kimono maker in town told me that in the old days there were no rules. If it was a nice fabric and you wore it as a kimono, then it’s a kimono.

[@sarahkinsey5434]

My brain goes to, the recommended brands/items might make the author some kind of commission. And like with everything, there are different levels to things. For your kimono example, there were the super fancy expensive intricate ones for higher class, then the lower grades for the lower classes, being from fine silk to basic linen or cotton

[@lilolmecj]

But let’s be honest, silk is wonderful, and easy to work with.😸 Realistically, in most, if not all history as it is reported, people used what they had. I have several quilt tops that were pieced by my grandmother and great grandmother, they did work to make their squares coordinate, but they were working from both scraps left from sewing, as well as pieces salvaged from worn out clothes.

[@ssoozee]

You are so smart! And maybe Japanese? I claim Japan as my home country because I was practically raised by a Japanese woman and she considered me her daughter, and I her, my mother. I’m going to make her a couple of these! Thank you for the video!

[@d.a.tsun5104]

Sashiko, I read, was meant to 'mend' a worn fabric (boro). You patch the cloth with these decorative stitches. So the materials shouldn't matter. But for beginners, it's easier to use thin plain fabrics to get the feeling, to trace the patterns and to get used to holding and working the needle. I'm glad I came across this video. I'm a newbie too so I can learn from her experience. I don't have patience, my stitches are getting larger because I rush.

[@kirstenfelton7420]

I’d use it as focal pieces in something you wear or make. The front of a pillow or the top bodice of an apron or pockets on a skirt

[@Worldbuilder]

I think I would use them as *really* cute handtowels. But I’ve spent years and years learning that using a thing you love is more important than preserving a thing you love. Because it’s in using it with joy you get joy out of it continually. :)

[@LoriPeace]

That's a good point. My first reaction to your comment was "handtowels?!? How dare?!?" But you're right -- in using something, "you get joy out of it continually"(to quote you back to you) whereas if you put it in a drawer to keep it safe, it may stay pretty, but it won't bring you that much joy.

[@cheekyb71]

Hand towels or table napkins! They're so beautiful, but if you aren't using them then they just sit and do nothing... I think there's a couple that are more detailed and wouldn't work so well as usable pieces, but they could be stunning on display

[@annettebroomhall8617]

Used and abused and loved to death is how I want my gifted quilts to finish their lives, so yes, make these useable and enjoy them on a daily basis. Tis sad how many things are put aside as too good to use.

[@craftdipper]

I agree. Little hand towels would be a beautiful use for these, and they would become softer with use. Linens that lie unused in a drawer are wasted in effect. Better to use, enjoy and wear them out❤ I think I heard someone say once in a sashiko video that stitched sarashi squares like these are traditionally used in Japan as kitchen cloths? Imagine!!!! 😮🙈😂

[@englishlanguagewithnina5965]

Using them as hand towels would give a lot of joyful moments!

[@nondisclosureable]

Sashiko is one of those things where getting a palm thimble and the correct needle type (they're a LOT longer than typical embroidery needles) really makes a huge difference in the learning curve.

[@Elirum]

Completely agree! I didn’t have the palm thimble (but would love one when sewing through super thick things) but even just the needle is so handy and if you were to spend any money on any of those things, it would definitely be the needle in my opinion.

[@enjoylife-cm8mn]

Yeah I came here to say this. A Sashiko palm thimble is a must. It doesn't have to be a specialized one either, there are plenty of tutorials on YT to make your own.

[@LazyIRanch]

Milliners needles are perfect, if you can find them. In 1980, when I was 19, I went to work for a tailor who created one of a kind couture suits for women executives. POWER suits, in 1980 the Joan Collins shoulder pads were everything! Our suits were sculpted with different kinds of interfacings inside that were pad-stitched to the fabric, such as underneath the lapels. Milliners needles were the only ones we used, finer than embroidery needles, but long. That way, we created 3-D curves to elements of the jackets that made them ultra feminine, no boxy "menswear". The shoulder pads and peplums created a flattering hourglass shape, even on our clients who were built like telephone poles. I love that era of fashion. Our customers loved our creations, and I learned so much from my boss, Gina. I never called her a "seamstress", I call her a fine artist and couture designer. Sadly, she died in a car accident in 1982, but I'll never forget that wonderful lady and what she taught me.

[@doctoroceanman]

This is great to know, thank you!

[@momosaku16]

This! When she was talking about her calouses I was just waiting for the point where she notices that you need a thimble

[@raebla]

Make them into a folding screen. Frame each in light wooden frame, to create panels and then screw in some hinges to make a screen where you can see both sides of the piece and can section of a bit of a room, or use a backdrop

[@BizzymomStudio]

I like this idea as the screen is also Japanese called shoji screen.

[@doris1826]

Or maybe a quilt? Rail fabric should be a solid color. Beautiful work!

[@daalelli]

Ooo, I love this idea!

[@Inna-sa]

Could be a nice divider in your long living room.

[@EastMtnArtisan]

They would make a beautiful tablecloth.

[@suzisaintjames]

What to do with the blocks? Here's a couple of suggestions: 1. Sew them together into a summer "quilt" or bed spread. (No batting, no backing... just sewn together.) See if you need the smaller ones to make the size to cover your bed, you might not need all of them. If you do, then sew a strip of fabric on all 4 sides (called sashing) to make them all the same size. 2. In Japan they hang very short curtains at the top of doorways (for privacy). Each western door would probably take 2-3 squares and you probably have enough squares to make these curtains for all the doorways of your home (including closets etc.). 3. If you stitched them all together instead of a bedspread, you could make curtains. They would be so pretty with the light showing through. 4. My home doesn't have big windows, so I might hang the "curtain" on a wall as a sort of tapestry or art piece. You often see quilts decorating walls of country cottages. Sending lots of love 💖 from sunny 🌞 Arizona 🌵. Take care of yourself and each other 😷.

[@binglemarie42]

My mom used to do Hardanger, a Norwegian embroidery style that doesn't use a frame. When I think about how her entire project, thread, and needle easily fit in a quart Ziploc bag, I think about taking it up myself! Sashiko looks like another great candidate for that.

[@cheekyb71]

My mum is a Hardanger master!! I didn't realise it was Norwegian though, we live in New Zealand and I have doilies and table cloths all around the house!! ❤ She goes to an embroidery group every week, always with Hardanger because it's so portable! ❤

[@dawnbaker9274]

I haven't thought of Hardanger in years. Perhaps my next project.

[@emilyrln]

My mom just found her Hardanger ornaments that had been lost!! 😂 She's working on them again. Not sure if she knows the craft is Norwegian, but that's perfect because my Gramma on her side was Norwegian! I will tell her 💕

[@galli0]

Look up Hardanger tablecloths, my grandma makes those still at 85🥰 also look up Hardanger, Norway, one of the prettiest places in the world 💜 I went to school there for a year, I'm from Ålesund, and me saying Hardanger is prettier is saying something I'd say😅 but I loved it there😊

[@Alisha_79]

I am going to have to try this!! I am part Norwegian.❤

[@OleanderStarr]

You used sashiko to make hanafukin. I think they’re used as cleaning cloths way back when in Japan. The sashiko stitches were both decorative and functional since they made the fabric more durable.

[@lwagner1723]

And they're often done with scraps from old clothes that you layered up. It's like recycling. At least that's what I've read.

[@kellybryson7754]

My first thought was they could be used as diapers!

[@chrisgreek4285]

The way you feel about embroidery is exactly how I feel about cross-stitch. Even though I live in chronic pain, I tend to only do projects that are super intricate, especially when doing petit point. I get that patience line all the time, and my answer is always the same: by focusing on this, my mind stills and my pain diminishes. It doesn’t matter the hobby, but I think everyone should have something that gives them that sense of peace.

[@amara.nthine]

I'm the exact same way - with chronic pain distraction is key, and something with detail is a great distraction. Cross-stitch was a game-changer for me to keep my mind and hands busy in the evenings.

[@nikolaimeriadoc696]

very interesting perspective, and mad respect for doing intricate work to help deal with chronic pain. im in a similar boat of using my crafting to distract myself from the pain and focus on something better, but i largely spin and knit, and i absolutely never make intricate pieces (brain fog is a killer, but dyslexia makes it hard to read patterns anyway, so everything is self drafted and its hard enough to do that plain ! lol), and so tend to work on very very simple and often plain pieces, but focusing on the movemement of my hands and the creation of the object.

[@ThomiQuilts]

I have the same experience with hand sewing and chronic pain. Something out of body to focus on, but not intense in any way

[@liav4102]

Yes! Embroidery is about the process not the destination. It’s like meditation but you have something physical at the end

[@SeaSelka]

Absolutely my thoughts! I do this (as well as other types of crafting) because I enjoy the process sometimes even more than the result!

[@bummersheep]

Beautifully said! Now I feel like I should strive to be more mindful as I knit. 😅👍

[@teresaellis7062]

@@bummersheep 😂Don't worry about being mindful. If you enjoy knitting and you enjoy the end product, it is enough.😊

[@sarahkinsey5434]

@@SeaSelka I like quilting and cutting is my favorite part because of how methodical it is

[@suzisaintjames]

28:55 your story about the guy who asked: what are you knitting... Made me remember when Quilted Northern bathroom tissue started an animated advertising campaign where two ladies were sitting at a quilting frame, each with a pair of knitting needles. It ran many times a day all across the nation on TV and in print ads for months before they release a revised version where the ladies ditched the knitting needles and were sewing (with the stab method) the quilt on the quilting frame. I bet someone got fired for not catching that mistake. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@Cooky_5580]

They are used as cleaning towels or dish towels. Very sturdy. That’s one of the original uses other than mending farmer and fishermen clothes. I use mine as dresser toppers. Like old fashion doilies. Also bread basket liners is a good use.

[@BananaPantsChannel]

I like how you made a little gallery at the end! My KZbin-only knowledge on Sashiko came from learning about visible mending. My impression is that sashiko began as a way to mend clothes, so from that perspective, using what ever fabric you have is probably plenty authentic

[@tezzcan1]

I was just going to say the same, there is a Sashiko teacher on Domestica (sorry Skillshare) that has the history too.

[@AnnaMorimoto]

Sashiko is supposed to strengthen what is essentially used like a tea-towel. Don't worry too much about the kind of fabric or thread you're using. It's fine. Sarashi momen is just undied woven cotton used for many things like underwear, steaming food or straining liquids, just like cheese cloth or gauze. Momen means cotton. Sarashi means to expose, referring to the traditional method of bleaching cloth white.

[@ebunni5862]

I would 100% make a skirt with this! You could add to the borders of the shrunk squares with more white fabric to make them all the same size. Maybe even make a pinafore skirt with your favorite square as the bib. Also, you could make a lightweight quilt with no backing. It'd be nice for hot summer nights and still decorative tossed on top of other blankets. Each one is so lovely!

[@Serena-or7sl]

A skirt is a good idea!! A would put the shrunk pieces around the waist and make the other layer "lighter". This way it becomes naturally slight A shaped :)

[@ebunni5862]

@@Serena-or7sl ahh! Great idea 💡

[@annettemcardle2173]

And if you make the skirt a wrap style then it can be a 2 sided skirt

[@jsmxwll]

i found that a longer sashiko needle and palm thimble really made the process faster on larger patters with no curves or shallow curves. i use shashiko stitches for visible mending pretty often so i am usually going for a larger stabilizing pattern to reinforce the mend rather than a straight embroidery.

[@auditoryeden]

So, re the idea of a quilt: the key would be to embroider the top cloth, a layer of batting, and the back cloth together. Sashiko is often thought of as a Japanese decorative quilting technique. I would probably get two pieces of fabric slightly larger than the desired size of the finished thing, the batting, and then literally just use that whole huge thing as my work piece. Then eventually when it's done you bind it and it's already quilted. Speaking of which I just had an idea for another quilted Christmas stocking design 😁

[@BeholdAlphaAndOmega]

Yes, you're talking about "quilt as you go," right? That's also what I'm thinking. Stitch the finished pieces to quilt squares of equal size, say 12 x12 or whatever, stich the batting and borders on each square, then assemble at the end

[@auditoryeden]

@@BeholdAlphaAndOmega That's also a good strategy, I was thinking more in terms of how to make a future quilted project, not a use for the samplers. Although why not both? Both is good.

[@zelliehtrue]

You can get picture frames that have glass front and back so you can see both sides of the artwork. It's also used for pressed flowers.

[@ColdBeforeNow]

Yes! You don't have to buy frames for all 36. Just frame your favorites. Then you can switch them out if you want to see other designs you made.

[@loriparker2440]

I like the Folding Screen idea (called Shoji Screen in Japan) because it would show off both sides of the fabric. You can also press a piece between two panes of glass and frame it. That way both sides are available for viewing. A gallery display of these on a sliding door, to a patio or balcony, for instance, would look nice because people could see one side going out and the other side coming back in. At the same time, it would help prevent birds from flying into the glass doors. Of course, you'd want to make certain the doors aren't in direct sunlight so the lovely threads won't fade. I really like this technique and I appreciate you explaining it as clearly as you did. Nice video. Kuddos. PEACE

[@eh3010]

One of the best parts of sashiko to me is how it goes hand in hand with boro boro to use up scrap fabric or make a weak fabric stronger.

[@vickierayhill4637]

The squares would make a great summer bedspread maybe joined together with colored bias tape, or just strips of matching colored cotton like a windowpane.

[@moonbasket]

So fun! I used the persimmon flower stitch pattern to attach interfacing to the side of a bag I was mending and I love how it turned out.

[@ProcraftinatorSharon]

You could use them as placemats or decorations on tables. You could use sashing (I think) or applique to make them into a quilt. You could use a frame where you can change them out and do a rotating display. I have a sheet hung as a curtain over a large picture window in my apartment, and I pin finished cross stitch or embroidery to it so I can see and enjoy my work. I can then just take a piece off to frame it or finish it out into a pillow or stand-up.

[@LilianaAvriel]

That store, Maydel, had kits with proper thread and the thinble youre supposed to use, from a really swell teacher who resides in Kyoto- Kazue from sashiko lab. They have the needles too that help stitch through a lot of fabric. I'm honestly surprised that you chose ordering fabric over kit, but good on you for doing the pattern from scratch. Def check out that sashiko teacher, her documentation is really amazing.

[@dawsie]

Back in 2002 I had to under go back surgery, my Mom and I belonged to world wide based online quilting group, on of the ladies lived in Tokyo and she sent me a dozen Sashiko kits to keep my hands busy while I was recovering. They ranged from geometric shapes, Autumn leaves floating on the wind to mice running around a square. I loved them they kept my mind occupied until the day I was allowed to finally get out of bed and walking again. One thing I loved was the specialised sewing needle for it, it’s longer than a standard needle which was handy considering you had to weave the needle up and down in one go for some of the geometric patterns lol. Many of the nurses would ask me what it was and I found it simpler to say I was learning Japanese Embroidery, they thought it was so cool. I love how some of the designs are placed onto clothes, but as you pointed out some designs make the fabric shrink so the designs would have to be done before the outfits are cut out of the fabric. This is something I really want to do one day. As you say it does not need a hoop or frame to work on this type of embroidery. But if I do go ahead I think I will make a frame to hold each panel of the outfit to ensure the fabric is kept straight. Just in case lol Your stitching is very neat, I could see all the squares joined as a throw but not as a quilt, as you said, you would be covering up the back which is just as pretty as the front. So it would be great as I summer throw when it’s just a little chilly when those summer storms hit.

[@staceyfranks01]

I was wondering where her frame was- or hoop. I think I would need a thimble too, she seems to be pushing the needle.

[@cerwelt]

I am making Christmas gifts now, so most of my embroidery is focused on finished projects. I’m a task oriented grandma. I have all I need to start Sashiko, and even found a book with patterns at my local “Friends of the Library” bookstore. I plan on starting after the new year because my attention is on gift making. I can’t imagine trying to do 36 projects for a first effort. Amazing in the bewildering sense of the word! I just finished my first sampler, it was 11x16” and ended up way better than I imagined. I still think a quilt would be a good way to utilize the pieces you made. Unless you’re going to frame them all I can’t see them being much more than so much embroidery put away in a box. I’m very utilitarian minded so consider that. The Japanese used Sashiko to repair precious clothing or to embellish clothing. A single piece might have been framed and hung, but the art was utilitarian in nature. Are you going to do more Sashiko or are you through with it? I love exploring embroidery in other countries so I was excited when I read you were sharing Sashiko. Thanks for the hard work! Beautiful.

[@Palitato]

Subscribed for cool crafty content, but also for heckin' cute pupper. Please make sure pupper is paid appropriately in treats for their participation in content creation.

[@shaylagrubelnik]

ooh ooh i know what to do with them... take them to a book binder some framing shops also do it and turn them into your own swatchbook/coffee table binderbook. we did it for nans work was a big hit. great way to display both sides

[@alexsudati]

Tbh I'd use them as napkins, "coasters" or sousplats. I fully support the "Use what you make" phrase. Put it to use. Don't leave them stored away.

[@grandmakatemakes]

On the quilt front, you could do what's referred to as "quilt as you go." Aside from quilting each block separately (which you've done), it has a technique for joining the blocks that would leave you with a double-sided quilt/ blanket. You wouldn't lose any of your stitching, could still easily display it, AND have a lovely handmade heirloom. Don't stress about there being blocks of different sizes. I have faith you'd figure out a way to cover for that.

[@joelledurben3799]

Totally with you on embroidery and patience. Embroidery helps me be patient with non-embroidery situations, like long layovers or boring meetings.

[@gettheetothestitchery]

Exactly! I see people just sitting doing nothing while waiting, and I'm like... how are you not going stir-crazy without something for your hands to do??

[@kazeboiii]

@@gettheetothestitcheryReasons I crochet, 1,000%! Keeps me occupied when otherwise I’d be sitting idle!

[@Dwynfal]

I love this! I'm not an embroiderer nor a sewist but I just mended some jeans with a shashiko-inspired patch. I had a pair of new-ish jeans I loved that ripped along the edge of the back pocket. I think the stress of always having my phone in that pocket, along with probably a weakness in the denim made for a long straight tear and left my butt hanging out. 😳 I put a patch of thin denim below and affixed it with a shashiko-ish design. Looks great and did the trick! I had to use the stabby method though; ain't no way I could do the sewing method through 2 and sometimes 3 layers of denim!

[@susanramsay4189]

Good for you! Not throwing jeans away or goin to an expensive tailor, but DIYing and saving a bit of the planet!!!

[@nevethangiel]

The sashiko thread I order online is actually thinner and tighter spun than dmc thread in my experience, and I much prefer it to embroidery floss. But you do you! I would have started with a couple kits rather than being like “I’m going to buy the supplies for 36 projects at once,”😂

[@GreenWhitePurple]

I agree, about the thread and about the kits. I’ve been doing some kits and Im trying to work up to drawing my own guidelines on fabric - I’ve never done that before. Will have to find some YT videos! But sewing Sashiko is very soothing.

[@kaylaboss8096]

Make them into a book! A fabric book of Sashiko would be lovely and would show both sides of the embroidery.

[@danielletdg8423]

I love that you kind of set up an interactive art installation in your house. So much fun. I think you did a fantastic job! ❤

[@monikasturm2575]

Stick it in your purse?!? But you have pockets in pockets! You don't need no stinking purse. Now you can carry a cute lil craft tote. 😂

[@monikasturm2575]

Oh wait was this filmed in the old apartment? Ok you still had a purse back then since pockets in pockets weren't born yet.

[@akhagee4707]

As soon as she said "on set" I knew it was prior times. Because she didn't do that kind of work during the strike either.

[@juliekustom4859]

😂😂😂

[@monikasturm2575]

@@akhagee4707 yeah saw the balcony and was like wait that's not the new house.

[@nydiaotero314]

😂😂😂😂

[@suzisaintjames]

I would be very reluctant to use your squares as towels. However, I do take my bf's old red shop rags, wash them (now pink ) and sashiko them together. They are stained from grease and paint. They have holes that I practice darning. And stitching two together makes a very nice weight fabric. These I do use as rags. Because when I make them that's their purpose. It's easy to use them as rags because that's what they were before I got them. I just work on them to make them more enjoyable to use (the thicker fabric and darned holes). No one sees them but me, so I can relax whilst stitching (my +s aren't always symmetrical), but like you said, we do it for the process. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@jociegeertsema9487]

I've been looking up (I don't want to say researching) sashiko off and on for a few years now. I'm too afraid of actually sewing it wrong😂 I've had people ask "what's sashiko" and I say " ITS A JAPANESE EMBROIDERY TECHNIQUE THAT TRANSLATES TO TINY STABS!" I can't control the nerd brain

[@megmagruder7124]

Tiny stabs, that would have been perfect to combine embroidery and voodoo. When irritated at a mortgage banker during a loan processing. It would crafty, but secretly I would be doing tiny stabs to take out my frustrations. Heee 😂😆😆🤣 will have to share with coworkers. (I’m in FHA multifamily underwriting)

[@Haffina]

That would explain why the tattoo studio near me is called Sashiko 😂

[@lauramayer4896]

I like how you just went for it! I have been researching it myself--and experimenting a little. One thing I found that there is something called a sashiko thimble, which sounds as if it will help with your pain and calluses. Another thing I was told is that it's pronounced more like "sash-ko" rather than sash-EE-ko.

[@annedavis3340]

​@@lauramayer4896 well, yes, and no. In Japanese every syllable except for "n" has a vowel at the end of it. This is why it can be difficult for them to pronounce some English words, as we don't have vowels after each consonant. They can and do quieten the pronunciation of vowels sometimes, think of whispering the vowel rather than pronouncing it clearly and deliberately. In pronouncing Sa-shi-ko you'd at bare minimum be saying sah-sh(i)-ko. (The "i" sound rhymes with "she", and the "shi" syllable is pronounced, therefore, exactly like "she", so pretend you're leaving the "e" off of the english word "she") Still 3 syllables, and even if you don't say the "i" you still want to think about it (hard to explain in text, it's still there in your breath even if you're not voicing it) 😊

[@SmolYui]

@@annedavis3340 mhm it's hard to explain, but yeah you are still saying sashiko but that i is almost fully dropped in casual speec, you do say it but it like you abruptly cut it off while saying it, wow it is hard to explain hehehehe, it very common thing in japanese, but you can still say sashiko fully pronouncing the i and still be correct it just sounds quite formal and technically theres also an "m" sound too thats said without a vowel in some cases atlast in some words i've learned in mahjong

[@jacquelinebergman6431]

I'm super impressed that you completed the whole book! They are beautiful! If you love both sides, you could use some which are the same size to make a beautiful folding screen room divider. I also think you could make some cool bags out of them with some clever folding that would show both sides. It would be fun to see you incorporate these embroideries into a piece of clothing, like a jacket or maybe a reversible vest. You could also sew some squares together to make a beautiful table runner. A roll-up or fold-up holder for art brushes or pencils would also be lovely made with these. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do with them.

[@susanramsay4189]

It's really cool to hear all these creative ideas. It does my heart good.

[@KTCoope]

These are so lovely! I think someone already mentioned it but the things you’ve made are called hanafukin and they’re kinda kitchen cloths, so they’re practical things (Sashiko is for strengthening fabric originally). I loved seeing all the different patterns you stitched and I hope we get to see some of the stuff you stitch on other things too!

[@kalieris]

That dress at the reveal is absolutely gorgeous on you. The color, the drape, the fit - just **chef’s kiss**. I started doing sashiko a month or so ago, and have been doing it freehand because pattern transfer is inexplicably hard for me. (Although I did buy a light pad while watching this video, so I guess I’m going to have to start thinking about making the actual correct patterns now, huh?) I wimped out and have been using thimbles, lol. I’ve also been using soft crafting felt as the base, because I’m too lazy to sew layers together. It’s really the most pleasant-feeling embroidery experience I’ve had, so I’m kind of excited now to do it closer to “correctly.”

[@ginninadances]

I agree on the dress. It's very princess-like

[@KTCoope]

Using a thimble isn't wimping out, I've been doing sashiko for a few months now and can't imagine not using a palm thimble, it feels like that would give you such hand cramp! I've not used a lightbox either, I draw the patterns directly onto the fabric (using grids etc) and it's totally fine :)

[@showandtellmeg]

I 100% agree about enjoying the process. There are some things u make because I want the finished item, and sometimes a certain part feels tedious and I want it to be over, but I generally love making things with my hands and the time I'm taking to make whatever it is will pass anyway and otherwise have nothing to show for it. So I knit complicated sweaters in tiny yarn and I love every minute of it. People always tell me they don't have the patience either and I always try to explain how meditative it is.

[@savdebunnies]

I feel exactly the same about patience and embrodery (and other yarn/fiber crafts). It's just not about the final object for me, it's about the process of making it. I typically make a point of making things as gifts for others because I enjoy making things far more than having them and wouldn't have the space to keep everything I made.

[@josephpoole3942]

The bit about knitting completely cracked me up. I have been into all kinds of fiber art my whole life for all the reasons you went through at the end and I'm always taking my projects with me if I can. Many years ago I had a keychain I was working on with embroidery floss taped to my counter at work and I'd work on knots between customers. One time a man very kindly came up to me and asked "oh, what are you knitting? 😊" i was completely dumbfounded and just said sir my knitting needles are all at home, this is macrame 😅 it was just my hands and some string lol but at least he was interested in it

[@lullabybits8263]

I think this would be a perfect technique for embroidering the hem of a skirt, since the back looks clean as well that’s perfect for something that might flip up and be seen

[@Sue_Shiko]

This looks like such a fun project! For anyone interested in sashiko, it's really worth getting the proper supplies -- needle, thread, and thimble. "Sashiko" encompasses the method of stitching, not just the end result. I recommend Sashiko Story here on KZbin for those interested in exploring more. It's a great craft, and with the traditional stitching method it's easy to stitch for hours without getting tired, since the action is in the movement of hands and arms, not fingers.

[@raynbeauheathercheng7721]

30:35 the term is called SMOCKING, a type of stitching. It shrinks, the fabric, as you're saying & it looks like the dark blue one that you embroidered. If you sew several strips of material between your squares, you would be able to make a quilt, that would fit your bed; but you could also make some cute curtains OR a dress with all of those squares and then the public would see your squares!

[@Just_my_opinion_23]

0:21 ‘unauthorized trip to barns and nobles’ 😂😂😂😂😂😂 13:34 awww puppers ❤

[@leoniemcewen7578]

Lovely, great work, what about a coffee table book so people can sit down and look thorough them, maybe name of pattern labels, hand stitched of course..

[@janewarnock8855]

I love the sashiko squares, but I had to laugh when you said you made a rule for only 3 projects on the go at once. 🤣🤣 I try to stick to 2 : 1 for home, 1 for taking out with me! It is so hard when there are so many ideas out there!

[@KEEN.J.M]

Make them onto a book for your coffee table. Embroider the front and rear cover as well as the binding. Use those pieces to cover wood panels for the cover. Bind all your panels together on one edge. Assemble cover. Stitch through hinge between covers and spine to secure all.

[@gingerdunbar3428]

Hi, Charlie! I bought that book and a kit from Amazon back in August. You have inspired me to stop procrastinating and get to it! Thank you!!

[@laurasharp7955]

My opinion is that embroidery is a love of it which transports you away onto another level and not patience no matter what type of embroidery you do. I have watched numerous videos and one channel on KZbin that I found very informative is The Green Wrapper. When doing Sashiko, they use a special type of thimble that is worn on your middle finger like a ring to push the needle through the fabric to avoid callasus on your thumb. Great project👍

[@midnightqueen3332]

Frame them somehow in double sided frames. The styles remind me a lot about old Japanese kimonos that were embroidered rather than painted or woven. I love all of them but the Tortoiseshells, and florals really popped to my liking and style. Nice work.

[@Maymuna]

Piggybacking off that suggestion they could make a really cool pair of room dividers.

[@Accentline1145]

Embroidery floss is a great sub if you're doing something decorative, however if you're doing mending I recommend getting the Sashiko thread. It doesn't separate into multiple threads easily, it's tighter spun, and it's overall a sturdier thread. I've done mending with embroidery floss and it just doesn't hold up long term on something like pants.

[@caseyh4639]

These are so beautiful. If you are giving any smaller gifts for the holidays you could use them as fabric gift wrapping.

[@BiahPan]

The bit at the end where you hang up all of your work and admire it made me emotional. I'm an artisan and sometimes it gets so tiring I forget to do that simple thing. Admire my own work.

[@julianachandler2975]

Beautiful. Impressive achievement. Even though I hate the thought of anything possibly damaging these, I also like the idea of them being used and enjoyed. Because of that, I think a coverlet (like the kind that you sit with on the sofa) where you could just stitch them together without a backing, could be great. Also, if you don’t mind cutting into them 😬, you could make a kimono type robe. Just my 2 cents.

[@susanramsay4189]

Your two cents just adds to all the wonder creative ideas listed here. Thanks.

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

I love the journey most. I am working on my first EPP hexagon project and started from the center out. It started with a yin yang symbol and keeps growing and now approaches a 60" star. That big, I decided to elongate it into a twin spread. Kept working while I designed the ends. Then I like the ends and designed the backing. I will hand quilt it. I consider it a Zen Meditation. I am almost finished with my latest cross stitch project, so pretty. It is a blooming redbud leaning over water in front of a full moon. My third project is turning old jeans into a skirt. This afternoon I ordered the fabric. Ugh. I have looked and looked for thrifted fabric. The problem was deciding what I wanted first. Wrong wrong wrong! I bought Aida and thread for a tapestry next. Gotta finish another couple hundred stitches on the tree 😊

[@yochva]

Regarding the quilt: Connecting the squares would be a fantastic way to highlight bordering and connecting stitches! It could be a summer coverlet. Since each square is already two layers, it's already summer weight. And you can use plain strips of the fabric to make smaller squares the same size as the largest ones.

[@Linbur0065]

Just gorgeous! You can absolutely make these into a quilt. For the ones that have been pulled in by the thread, just add some white fabric to make it the same size as the standard block.

[@PhDchick]

I bought a template for making dots. Yet to try it yet. You have me wanting to start a quilt out of it now.

[@joyteale6897]

Lovely watching you progress through all those stiches. I am a complete beginner and I found this very encouraging..

[@ElizabethSampson]

Make a jacket, skirt, shirt, or outfit out of them. They are so beautiful! Congratulations on this accomplishment!

[@bittersweet3-]

It could be reversible.

[@rhonddalesley]

A kimono would be perfect because it’s all straight lines so most of the squares wouldn’t need to be cut and the stitches would remain secure (although that’d depend on the size though 🤔).

[@kariconant3488]

I can see them being sewn together like a quilt that doesn't have a backing and using it as a beautiful coverlet on a bed. Beautiful work.

[@ponderosityjay8132]

A throw size quilt at 6x6 pieces would be great and doggo/couch pretty size. It could be backed with scrap fabric a la what Shannon Makes just did on her channel. That seems like a very you project. You could also make 4 tote crafting bags/totes with a canvas lining. They are throw pillow sized. You could also make them fancy lined drapes.

[@LoriPeace]

But you're still talking about backing them with something which would cover up the beautiful work she did on the back.

[@angielovett4159]

I would totally sew them all together as a summer quilt! No batting, no backing. I’m a improv quilter and I would just add thin sashing to even them up, just enough (not on all of them, but only where needed). I would also keep them in the order you did them. So you could ‘read’ the progression like words on a page.They are epic! I love you did the whole book! Awesome goal and great video! Loved it 🥰⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕

[@ghostsandcoffee126]

I feel like those lovely boxy kimono-esc spring/autumn jackets would be a great use for these! Absolutely lovely work on all of these patterns! 😍

[@katrineknudsen4231]

I am from Sweden and I have always done crosstich, dispute stitch and needlepoint without a frame. It is the way I was taught and it means it is very portable.

[@LoriPeace]

An unauthorized trip to the bookstore? Does Mat have to authorize your trips now? LOL Halfway through -- this is fascinating! I used to do cross-stitch back before my daughter was born, and I still have all the stuff for it, tucked away upstairs. I keep thinking I should get it out and work on it again, but I've got too much stuff spread out all over right now from all the other unfinished projects I've got going on -- must resist the urge... must resist... it's a good thing it's all upstairs and I have a hard time going up the stairs. 😉

[@gettheetothestitchery]

Haha no, I have to authorize my own trips! Caught myself by surprise with this one - I was in the store before I could tell myself I did not need any more books. XD

[@vernieplummer5148]

Is there anything better than the moment when you get all done and you can hang up your work and look at it? I do the same thing. I got sick and tired of how uneven my stitching looked, so the way I remedied that situation was to sew an entire quilt top in squares of paper piecing. Just like you, I did that while on a very long trip where we crossed the country and visited all of our friends and family. I do still remember where I was when I did certain ones. After I sewed the back onto the quilt top, I wanted to learn how to quilt with a regular sewing machine, so I quilted the whole thing on my normal machine. The entire quilt was a learning experience and it’s on my bed now. I can look at it whenever I want and enjoy it.

[@robinbaum-hn2pc]

I just discovered your KZbin channel.(I been wanting to learn this type of embroidery style because I love Japanese things) I saw some wonderful lite weight jackets that used this technique (blue on white) and it was so cool looking. The jacket was a blocky type pattern so maybe? You can use these in that way. It is a wonderful thing you have done! I’m re inspired to try it again and will get creative in the fabric I use( cheep skate me) and thank you so much for the observation about the floss. I figure there’s got to be some sort of Cotten cloth with the same thread count or close enough to try it. I’m a sr. On a next to no income so “getting creative” is an absolute necessity.

[@AcrophobicPixie]

I've only seen Sashiko as a mending technique, not as a standalone embroidery style. I shall have to look into this, for sure.

[@lizvanwessem2055]

Here's my thought: you know those multi-fold (usually at least 3) room dividing screens? I would try to find some frames that have glass (or similar to protect the fabric) on both sides. Put the sashiko into the frames, one each, then create larger frames, enough to hold, say, 6 of the smaller frames within it. that would be one upright of your screen. Unless Matt is very handy with tools (and from something you said on Instagram it sounds like he's WAY too busy ATM for this) you'd probably need to get a carpenter - but if you make 6 of those uprights, with 6 pieces of the sashiko in each one, connected with hinges, you've got a really large folding screen that will allow for anyone to see both sides - it would look great in your living room, it's a big enough room to hold that kind of large piece of furniture. Alternatively, you could do something similar but treat each one as a cupboard 'door', maybe for something like those ikea cube storage things (I googled, the Kallax things), but again, focusing on the idea of having each one inside a double sided glass frame to allow you to see the back of each piece. This may actually work quite well if you want something that is slightly see through but not completely, if you leave the glass clear around each sashiko panel. Could work really well for storage for your craft room? Hope that I've explained myself sufficiently well and this makes sense? I'd send links but youtube won't like that.

[@linellcorban4194]

The room screen sounds really good. You could alternate the pieces- front/back to both show the backs & have the finished fronts on either side of the screen...not sure I explained that well!😆

[@betsyw4943]

And some people use Kallax as a room divider. Putting sashiko squares over some/all of the squares from one or both sides would be really cool for that! (Phone wanted to autocorrect sashiko to sashimi. 😂)

[@Kate-fz3rp]

11:11, I'm sitting here knitting socks with my coffee and my puppy too. There is nothing better :)

[@prosie1968]

That’s an amazing progression! I hope you make it into a quilt. I’m surprised you don’t mention sashiko needles or the palm thimble that helps you rock the stitches back and forth rather than using just your fingers.

[@missKiran1234]

You're amazing ❤ You accomplished so much 🎉❤ Such a relaxing type of embroidery with just the running stitch 😊

[@ElaineDarlingtonBrown]

I’m 74 and have embroidered most of my life. I totally agree with your philosophy. The process has always meant much to me than the result. Thank you.

[@marijkeschellenbach2680]

I have been learning how to do Sashiko and The Green Wrapper has been my most favorite KZbin to watch for learning everything about it. I love your enthusiasm.

[@judidavieswebb]

Sashiko is relaxing, taught myself lash year, used cotton fabric and floss till I got the hang of it. I now have the needles and thread to do it properly. Good destressing exercise.

[@personneici2595]

I got my COVID booster, flu shot, and pneumonia vaccine yesterday. I slept most of today and now I'm stoned and vibing. This video was so interesting and cozy. I found it really comforting. I'm going through really huge life changes with a divorce and moving countries looming. Both divorce and move are a relief but it's a lot to handle at once.

[@CazkiwiNZ]

Ty for taking us on this journey…. I love progress videos rather than just showing off the end result… so much more fascinating 🤗🤗🤗

[@kbrooks1808]

You're thoughts on why you embroider and don't need patience makes total sense! You could put the sashiko together into curtain panels for your house!

[@I.m-Me]

@gettheetothestitchery - 1) They're beautiful. 2) I think you'd also enjoy smocking, which is equally regular and detailed. 3) Suggestion for your sashiko pieces: If you want them to all be the same size for a project you can attach borders around them, either making them all the largest size or giving them all a border and then cutting them to a uniform size. That especially shrunken one would look good framed in blue, for instance. 3)A) List of reversible square items that wouldn't need to cut the embroidery: - a light throw sheet/blanket - comforter cover - square shawl (usually folded into a triangle when in use) - scarf/rectangular shawl

[@I.m-Me]

I'm not sure if it'd work, but I keep dreaming that one day I'm going to take a bunch of squares, maybe kerchiefs, turn them diamond-wise, and make a skirt. Possibly a dress. You could gather it, but I kind of want to just double the squares wherever I want more flounce 🤔 Anyway, the hem would be fun and I wouldn't have to worry about it being imperfect.

[@gettheetothestitchery]

Ooooo smocking has been on the list for a while! It's moving it's way up!

[@I.m-Me]

@@gettheetothestitchery A friend of mine did it once about 20 years ago. It was beautiful and very 3D, (at least 1 cm, I think?,) and it kind of turned excess fabric into a slightly elasticized, colorfully accented gather? Enjoy!

[@margaretwalker5697]

I've ordered from Maydel several times they are a great small business to support glad to hear you had the same experience!

[@Famr4evr]

This is actually so amazing!! I think that it is such an awesome technique. I'm glad you were able to find the fabric to use and then share this new talent with the rest of us.

[@madiantin]

Yeeees yes! When I'm knitting I'm not knitting to have a finished product...though that's always nice too...I'm knitting to knit because it's soothing and calming and makes my brain happy.

[@bellehollins]

Your timing is impeccable. I desperately needed something focus-intense to keep my mind and hands busy the last couple of weeks and you gave that to me with this video! As far as new hobbies go, this was pretty cheap if you don’t mind not being picky about authenticity. I have been sending this to everyone I know! ❤

[@susanadair3360]

You’ll make a something that needs a point of interest, cuff, collar, belt or hem and you’ll have all those patterns to choose from! Dinner Napkins, tea towels or a tablecloth and napkins for a picnic basket. I see it almost like you had it, as backyard decor or sunshade umbrella thing.

[@spinwitch]

Authenticity has NO price tag. Traditionally Sashiko was used to repair clothes. With whatever cloth and thread was at hand or could be afforded. So, just making do with what you have IS authentic. BTW: When I was in school and about 11 yrs old (more than 50 yrs ago) we did two of those patterns in needle work class: Dan-Tsunagi and Kaki-No-Hana. Without the name Sashiko, without knowing what it was - and I really hated it, because it took forever.

[@ghostwinner21channel]

I've never done embroidery yet but have done knitting and crocheting, and this year (2023) is the first time I've tried them. I've mastered basic knit stitch adult beanies in knitting finishing them in 16 to 18 hours each and been on and off a British single crochet stitch blanket since June and been working 3 to 6 hours a day on it. I don't have great attention focusing and patience but the projects that I've done are something else. I'll eventually get to embroidery

[@tomicorevilak7710]

You can use some of these as for the traditional kitchen cloths. They can be put over fruit or rising bread, drying your hands or napkins.

[@tangerinejukebox]

"I google it, watch 23 disconnected seconds of KZbin videos and dive in..." I've never felt so seen 🤣 The urge to jump in is just too strong sometimes, but it's great to see you've given sashiko love and time :)

[@SkyeSalindar]

embroidery is great to give my hands something to do and occupy part of my adhd brain, especially if I'm tired but don't want to zone out (like when I play D&D and need to pay attention). I like the idea of using them as hand towels and/or decorative towels like hanging from the handle of a stove or fridge. I wonder if you could sew some sort of border on them that will make them look more uniform and protect the edges from damage overtime

[@LindaLeeKlocek]

Wow! 1,085 comments at this point. Congrats o n that. I did some Sashiko during “lockdown” when Covid 19 was new and almost all of us separated from the rest of society. My understanding was that this method was used to extend the life of clothing. I had some well loved (and wearing thin in the lower thigh) jeans. My information was to use Perle cotton which comes in a wound spool. I layered my patching fabric inside of the pant leg, tacked it in placed and stitched samples of different designs next to each other across the whole patching area. The leg designs weren’t matching but the patching should help my jeans last years longer and, best part, have made these jeans warmer in the cold winter months. Hope you enjoy this stitchery as much as I did.

[@malinw1910]

When I do intense learning of a new skill like this, what I do is I make books out of them. I can see it possible to do with these, like they have for fabric swatches in furniture stores. In chronological order so that you forever can se the development of the skill. I love to look back at where i started and how learning works, it humbles me a little, helps with my perfectionism as well.

[@kimellis6285]

These are absolutely beautiful.. thank you for sharing! Also can you tell me where you bought your dress? My granddaughter would so love to have one like that! ❤️

[@GoblinGhouls]

I like the idea of a sashiko blanket or curtain... You could frame them with some cotton ribbon to give some wiggle room for the varied square sizes. I think that'd be lovely! For future sashiko projects...i use it as a way of mending and reinforcing clothing! The extra thread through the fabric stabilizes it. It looks cute and decorative over areas like where I've ripped holes in the knees or at the back pocket, but can also be discrete for when the crotch wears through. This really extends the life of my jeans!

[@stef1lee]

Yeah, I'm at a loss for thinking of ways to display or utilize them in a way that would be preserving unless you used them as a background in shadow boxes or picture frames except your back pieces would be hidden. Now, there is a person on YT that does make them as cleaning cloths for the floors, counters and scrubbies for pans. I believe she said her grandmother used to make them for such purposes and if they were worn out in a place, she'd just throw a patch on, embroider an opposing shashiko pattern on the patch and keep on trucking. It's really a very neat idea. Beautiful also. ❤

[@crittercre8r]

If you want something to remember them by, you can make them into a soft book by sewing them together as pages, or get something to make into a hard cover to put them into for pages of a literal book. If you want them on display, but protected, you can get a shadowbox to put them into, and switch whichever is in front as you wish.

[@quietone748]

This video brought a smile to my face today. I love your silly sense of humor, and that scene where you hang all your works of art is so enjoyable. I don't know if you made that dress yourself or not, but it hangs beautifully. Thank you for making my morning a special one :)