Dear future Sashiko friends,

Thank you very much for registering for the 3-Days Sashiko Workshop at Aya Fiber Studio. I am very happy that we can make it happen together.

The 3-days of stitching requires some preparation. Please read the designated website I prepared for you below.

https://www.atsushi.japanesesashiko.com/3-days-sashiko-workshop-afs

Some of the important action you need to take is:

  • Purchase the Special Material Package (Link above)

  • Read website above carefully & ask questions if any

  • Prepare some of the “Garment/Fabric” you would like to stitch on (Some Fabric best suitable for Sashiko will be provided)

  • Possibly share your expectation via Google Form on the website above.

The website also explains a list of tools I recommend you to bring. Some non-Sashiko related tools/materials will be very helpful to maximize your Sashiko stitching experience.

The list of things I recommend you to bring are:

Tools: 

  • Ruler (s)

  • Scissors (Fabric Scissors would be better)

  • Notepad & something to write with

  • Scotch Tape

  • Pincushion / Needle Rest

  • Regular Sewing set

    • Sewing needle / dressmaker pins (to hold fabrics)

    • Sewing thread

    • Pins

  • Bandage or masking tape to protect the finger’s nail (☆) - only if you would like to protect the nail (the detail is available in the welcome email).


Supplies:

  • Any garments you would like to have Sashiko stitches on, mainly for Day-2. Several garments/options would be great for mending & for actual Sashiko stitching. Stretchy fabric (stretch denim), hard fabric (raw denim or canvas), and other non-cotton fabric are not recommended to practice Sashiko for the first time.

  • Any (Sashiko) threads, needles, thimbles and fabrics that they would like to confirm how to use (not required).

  • Any books they would like to share (I do not have recommendations for books in English, though).

Just as a quick note for above (☆) If you have beautiful nails, you may want to bring a bandage/masking tape (or fake fingernails and/or vinyl tape) to protect them from being scratched by the needle. In the process of learning the Sashiko posture, the needle may scratch the nail a bit.

In the past workshops, some of the participants experienced the difficulty of holding the needle in a specific posture because of their long nails. After getting used to the posture, the long nail won't be a trouble.  However, for the beginning (the first time of introducing the new technique), it could be an obstacle. If you have a long nail on your thumb and middle finger of the dominant hand (the hand you will hold the needle), it may be a good idea to cut it short before the workshop. 

Lastly, please do not forget to bring your passion & interest!

I am happy to answer any kind of question. Bring your own Sashiko project if you want.

I will bring as many collections as possible to share & some supplies (Thread and such) for purchases as well. 


I am very much looking forward to meeting all of you.

Sincerely,

Atsushi Futatsuya