Join renowned Sashiko artist Atsushi Futatsuya for an immersive 3-day workshop where he will share his lifelong dedication to this traditional Japanese stitching technique. This hands-on experience offers participants a deep dive into the authentic practice of Sashiko, blending skill-building with a rich cultural understanding.

Day 1: Core & Essence

The first day focuses on the fundamental elements of Sashiko. Rather than a casual stitching session, this is a focused opportunity to learn the most important techniques and mindset needed to fully engage with Sashiko. You will be introduced to the art's essential techniques, including Unshin (needle movement), which is at the heart of rhythmic Sashiko stitching. Atsushi will also teach proper posture, how to use the thimble and needle efficiently, and how to create even, beautiful stitches. The day concludes with hands-on practice as participants stitch the Asanoha pattern, a classic Sashiko motif. This foundational session sets the stage for the following days of creative application.

Day 2: Application & Practice

On the second day, participants will begin applying the Sashiko techniques learned on Day 1 to their projects. This session focuses on integrating Sashiko into practical use, such as mending garments or working on new fabric. You will learn how to transfer patterns to fabric, prepare materials for stitching, and apply Sashiko for visible mending—a beautiful way to repair worn clothing. Atsushi will also introduce Boro, the Japanese technique of patching and reinforcing fabric, giving you insights into its historical significance and practical application.

Day 3: Hitomezashi (Application & Practice)

The third day will take you deeper into the world of Hitomezashi, a striking and powerful variation of Sashiko that features a different stitch style from the traditional running stitch. Atsushi will guide you through fabric preparation, pattern creation, and refining your needle and thimble techniques. This day is a valuable opportunity to review and reinforce what you learned about Sashiko on the first two days. You’ll also learn how to incorporate vintage fabrics into your projects and understand how Hitomezashi enhances the visual appeal of your work. The day concludes with plenty of hands-on practice, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the meditative rhythm of this intricate art.

Throughout the workshop, Atsushi will share his extensive knowledge of Sashiko’s history, its role in Japanese culture, and how it has evolved. You'll learn not only how to stitch but also how to approach Sashiko with the right spirit—understanding its aesthetics, rhythms, and the joy it can bring to your creative process. Atsushi, who comes from a long line of Sashiko practitioners, brings both the skills of a master artisan and the depth of cultural tradition to this workshop.

Supply Package

A specialized supply package is required for the workshop, priced at approximately $150. Atsushi strongly encourages participants to purchase this package online before the workshop, ensuring they have all the necessary materials for an authentic Sashiko experience. The package includes Japanese-imported, high-quality materials, which will be shipped to Aya Fiber Studio ahead of the event.

Day 1 Supplies Include:

White Sashiko thread
Sashiko thimble
Three Sashiko needles
Dark indigo fabric with Asanoha pattern (27" x 11")
Light blue fabric (27" x 11")
Two small indigo swatches
Chalk pencil, thread bobbin paper, finger cot, threader, and a surprise item

Day 2 & Day 3 Supplies Include:

Sashiko thread (color of your choice)
Two additional skeins of Yokota Sashiko thread (one thin, one thick)
One skein of natural dye Sashiko thread (color of your choice)
Basting thread
Fabric set for Hitomezashi, specially prepared for the workshop
Swatches for pattern practice and mending
Additional small cotton swatches and materials for application projects
PDF of graph paper for pattern development
A small surprise item

The materials provided will ensure that each participant has everything needed to fully participate in the workshop. However, Atsushi encourages attendees to bring additional items to personalize their experience further. Suggested items include:

Garments for stitching: Bring clothing you’d like to apply Sashiko to, especially for Day 2’s mending and stitching exercises.
Personal tools: If you have favorite scissors, needles, or Sashiko supplies, feel free to bring them for your use. Aya Fiber Studio will have a limited number of tools available for general use, but bringing your own ensures you can work efficiently.
Notebook and ruler: To take notes and measure your work.
Sewing kit: A basic kit that includes a sewing needle, thread, pins, and other essentials can be helpful, especially for mending projects.

Why Attend?

This workshop offers a rare and valuable opportunity to learn Sashiko from a true master, Atsushi Futatsuya, who has inherited this tradition through generations of his family. Participants will leave with not only the technical skills of Sashiko but also a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance and artistic potential. Sashiko can be decorative, meditative, and practical, but in its most authentic form, it is a way of life—a mindful practice that brings beauty to the everyday. By the end of the three days, you’ll have completed personal projects and gained confidence in both the art and spirit of Sashiko.

This experience is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Japanese textile arts, explore creative mending techniques, or simply enjoy the meditative nature of Sashiko stitching. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced textile artist, you will find inspiration and guidance in this comprehensive workshop.

Summary of What You Will Gain from This 3-Day Workshop: https://upcyclestitches.com/3-day-workshop-with-japanese-sashiko-artisan/

Story of 3-Day Sashiko Workshop: https://sashikostory.com/blogs/thoughts-on-sashiko/sashiko-story-for-3-day-sashiko-workshop

Sashiko Class Core & Essence, plus Application with Atsushi Futatsuya