Popular Patchwork
September 2015
Sashiko is a wonderful relaxing hand technique based on running stitch patterns and originating from Northern Japan. Traditionally it is worked in white thread on dark plain cloth, but Silke Bosbach has updated the traditional stitch patterns by using coloured thread on a variety of different surface textures. There are fifteen projects in this collection, half of which are stitch projects on previously bought or made items, such as tote bags or scarves and the remainder are more creative pieces with either further embellishment or using an unusual base fabric such as organza. Her stitch projects on wool and felt surfaces are particularly interesting, and a new source or inspiration. If you are lucky enough to have access to a Sashiko stitch machine, there is an additional machine sewn project featuring the beautiful six pointed star design on a wadding background.
Love to Make
June 2015
In this lovely book, Silke Bosbach introduces you to the basic elements of sashiko, showing the reader how this simple stitch can magically transform plain fabrics into beautiful works of art. Sashiko is a tradition Japanese embroidery technique, which is very easy to master. There are templates in this book for 14 design variations, which Silke uses on bags, cushions and table linen. Furthermore, she shows you how to adapt the stitch to create unique textile combinations by applying it with other techniques to textured surfaces.
Stitch
February 2015
Sashiko was originally used for economic, nor decorative purposes. Developed in northern Japan to rework used materials, simple patterns of repeated running stitch were working in white on indigo-dyed textiles. Worn-out jackets were repurposed as rice bags or cloths with this structural, attractive stitch. Fire-fighters' protective jackers were traditionally lined with sashiko embroidery, possibly in designs symbolising protection from evil spirits or a wish for health. Because they were repurposed many times, few early sashiko examples exist. It wasn't until the 1970's that sashiko regained popularity. Silke adapts sashiko traditions to dramatic effect. Where old garments transformed into bags would have been dark fabric quilted in white. Silke's inverted palette sees floral motifs stitched on snow-white cloth, while colour is gently introduced on useful items including a laptop case. Silke references other Japanese textile techniques including shibori which sets fabric in patterns before dyeing. in Silke's version the fabric is gathered up is not dyed, but stitched with floral patterns in sunny shades. The seeds originally used are replaced by glass beads, and tufts of wool pull up the flowers' centres on a luxurious fabric felted from cashmere, merino and silk - it's worlds away from sashiko's prosaic origins.
Merseyside Embroiderer's Guild (megonline.co.uk)
November 2014
This slim volume combines the simple elegance of traditional Japanese sashiko with modern surface designs and materials. The easy to follow techniques are perfect for the absolute beginner plus providing plenty of inspiration for more advanced stitchers. The designs are made from single stitch sashiko worked on a linear grid either with single or multiple strands. In patterns the stitches do not cross. The designs are created from straight or curved lines of running stitch. There is now a sewing machine that can imitate hand stitching. This is a charming book with high quality pictures and many designs to get anyone started.
