Sashiko is a deceptively simple - and rather addictive embroidery technique, creating complex geometric patterns with just a basic running stitch.

Traditionally used in Japan to reinforce clothing and household textiles by adding decorative patches, Sashiko has become very popular in recent years with embroiderers and quilters, partly because of its strong visual impact and partly because of its simplicity - the act of hand-stitching and concentration can have a calming and relaxing effect on the mind - a kind of ‘active meditation’ practice!

In this workshop, we’ll cover the basics you need to get going with Sashiko: transferring patterns, starting to stitch, and changing stitch direction. We’ll then make a wall hanging sampler framed in an embroidery hoop using two or more patterns in the traditional ‘white on navy’ style.

All materials will be provided and there’ll some ‘take-away’ ideas as well!

The workshop will be divided into three parts.