What is Sashiko Quilting?
Patchwork quilts come in every shape and size, so it should be no surprise when you come across new methodologies and styles when it comes to quilts.
I have been looking into an obscure type of quilting called Sashiko quilting. This is a kind of quilting that originates from Japan. “Sashiko” itself literally translates into “little stabs” making reference to the stitching style used in the procedure.
It was initially used to fix tears and worn out parts of a quilt, but over time has turned into its own quilting style. This is a hand stitching process that utilises the thread itself to stitch a pattern or {mural} into the quilt.
The murals are very strongly orientally themed, often based around lotuses, bamboo and Koi. The patterns however are less so, but still maintain a certain oriental feel to it.
The good news is that some stores are selling Sashiko patterns and materials, saving you the tedium and time labour intensive task of hand weaving your own patterns, although I would still suggest sewing your own {mural} if you’re going for that design.
Traditional Sashiko designs customarily have blues, greys and blacks as their main colors and employ a white or red thread for the pattern or {mural} thread work. There is nothing saying that you have to use these colors, however keep this in mind if you’re aiming to make a rather more original looking quilt.
This design truly implies a interesting and beautiful design for any patchwork quilt, however there is a decent level of talent involved in getting it exactly right so its clearly not something for somebody new to quilting.
If you’re getting tired of making the same kinds of patchwork quilts or are just looking out for a challenge, you may want to check out Sashiko designs. It might just be what you’ve been hunting for.
To get more good tips about how to make a patchwork quilt, check out Jane Green’s how to make a patchwork quilt web site now!
