This traditional Sashiko pattern, Arare-kikko, is printed on 100% cotton fabric with wash away markings. You just thread your sashiko needle with sashiko thread and enjoy the stitching. Sashiko threads comes in many colours, choose your favourite, or use traditional white.
How to
I have included basic English directions with the fabric, and there are direction of stitching arrows on the image on the package insert.
Remember the markings will wash out so don't get the fabric damp before you have finished stitching. Also, please don't iron it until you have washed the print out, heat can fix the marks so they won't wash out.
The sashiko printed area is 12" x 12" but the fabric provided is 13" x 26". For a nicer and more traditional sashiko piece, fold the unprinted fabric to the back of the printed fabric and do the stitching through both layers.
Uses & Care
This fabric sampler is called a Hana Fukin, which means a useful household cloth. You can use these in the kitchen to cover a bowl of fruit, eggs, or breads, or as table mats, or as absorbent tea towels. You can also use them to make cushions, or stitch several together to make a runner. They also make excellent quilt blocks combines with other cotton dyed yarn or Japanese print fabrics.
Sashiko stitching is durable and machine washable. This fabric and thread will become prettier with repeat washing as they both thicken and the thread plumps up a little.
Symbolism
Most sashiko designs are abstract drawings objects in the natural world, and/or symbolic of meanings associated with life and the environment.
