刺し子 Sashiko
Sashiko at Cha-Ami Japanese Cultural Center
Sashiko (刺し子) is a traditional Japanese mending practice that reflects care, patience, and respect for everyday objects. At Cha-Ami Japanese Cultural Center, we welcome visitors to experience Sashiko as a quiet, mindful activity that connects handwork with Japanese culture and values.
You are warmly invited to visit Cha-Ami on Tuesdays during our regular hours. Shizuka is at Cha-Ami on Tuesdays, and the center is usually very quiet, making it a perfect time to sit, stitch, and enjoy Sashiko at a relaxed pace.
History of Sashiko
Sashiko developed in rural Japan during the Edo period (1603–1867). At a time when fabric was precious and difficult to replace, people used simple running stitches to repair, reinforce, and extend the life of clothing and household textiles. What began as necessity gradually evolved into a distinctive visual tradition, with regional patterns and family techniques passed down through generations.
Philosophy
At its heart, Sashiko is about mottainai—the idea of not wasting what still has value. Rather than hiding wear and damage, Sashiko highlights repair as something honest and beautiful. The practice encourages:
-
Mindfulness and calm through repetitive stitching
-
Appreciation for imperfection and age
-
Respect for materials and the hands that use them
Sashiko is not about perfection. Uneven stitches and subtle variations are embraced as part of the maker’s presence in the work.
Materials
Traditional Sashiko uses simple, accessible materials:
-
Cotton fabric, often indigo-dyed
-
Sashiko thread, typically thick, lightly twisted cotton
-
Needles with large eyes and a long shaft
-
Patterns based on geometric and symbolic designs
At Cha-Ami, we focus on understanding these materials and how they work together, rather than rushing toward a finished piece.
Modern Use of Sashiko
Today, Sashiko is practiced around the world as both a functional mending method and a creative expression. It is commonly used to:
-
Mend and strengthen clothing
-
Repair textiles such as bags and linens
-
Create decorative panels and art pieces
-
Practice slow, sustainable handcraft
Many people are drawn to Sashiko as a response to fast fashion, finding meaning in repairing what they already own.
Practice Sashiko at Cha-Ami
Cha-Ami offers a welcoming space to learn about Sashiko in a cultural and historical context. Tuesdays are especially recommended, as the center is quiet and conducive to focused handwork. Whether you are completely new or already familiar with Sashiko, you are welcome to sit, stitch, and learn at your own pace.
Acknowledgment
Sashiko at Cha-Ami is made possible by the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council (MRAC) and the Minnesota State Arts Board.
Sashiko
Have a question?