Sashiko: A method that reinforces worn-out textiles by layering and stitching them together, preventing further damage while adding unique, intricate designs.
What is Sashiko?
Sashiko, or 'little stabs' in English, is a repairing technique that originated in 1600 in Japan. This embroidery technique strengthens points of wear and repairs with stitched patches or different patterns and colours, making each sashiko modification unique.
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Sashiko emerged within working-class families, and it embodies the "waste nothing" ideology from Japanese culture, the result is both functional and beautiful.
This technique encourages consumers to take care of their garments and shows that a rip or hole in a pair of jeans can be beautifully fixed with detailed stitching rather than discarded.
Sashiko symbolises a slow and mindful lifestyle that is traditional to Japanese culture, the accumulation of stitches and patterns of different materials represent the effort and the value that we hold with the piece of clothing, the more used the item, the more stitching it may have and the higher value this piece becomes to the individual.
Value does not come from what's trending; it comes from what's used the most and the pieces that are special and unique to you!
Image Source Sashiko Gals
In Japan, the philosophy of cherishing objects and embracing imperfection (Wabi-Sabi) is part of the culture. You can discover the beauty in flaws and create something beautiful from the "broken". Sashiko transforms worn-out clothes and shoes into art by highlighting imperfections rather than hiding them. This philosophy is at the forefront of the circular economy; we have to stop chasing perfection in new items and create a long-lasting appreciation and value in what we own.
What Materials are Used in Sashiko
Sashiko is an embroidered pattern; you will need a needle, thread, thumb thimble, a pencil for sketching, and your preloved clothing, of course! To create your sashiko, sketch out an embroidery pattern you would like, place the patch of clothing on top of the garment, and start stitching the pattern and handcrafting your unique upcycled masterpiece.
The Sashiko Gals
The Sashiko Gals are a group of 15 Japanese women ages 40 to 80 years old who are upcycling and mending clothing items with detailed and stunning designs. The collective first started as a way for elder women to gain some financial independence, but the art that the Sashiko Gals created was more successful than they believed it could be.
The world is impressed by the repairing technique and the demand has grown to the point that the Gals have a waitlist for their Sashiko designs, through the hype, the collective still keeps the spirit of reusing and repairing beloved items and extending their lifecycle. The collective has also worked with New Balance sneakers to create a fresh and strengthened look with colorful stitches and patterns. The detailed stitchwork turns rips and frays into striking patterns, giving garments a new life with a handcrafted and personalized look.
Sashiko in the Mainstream
Sashiko has entered mainstream fashion through brands like Nike, but often without its core values of repair and circularity.
The Swoosh brand has released several Sashiko-inspired designs on some of its most popular silhouettes, including the Nike Dunk, Blazer, and Jordan Low. Among them are also a few Nike SB styles.
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Traditional design elements, such as Swooshes and overlays, have been replaced with intricate Sashiko-style embroidery. Sashiko patterns also appear on the upper, and a significant amount of denim has been incorporated into the designs.
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When used on new items, it might risk undermining the cultural significance and traditional craftsmanship of the embroidering technique Sashiko.
UNIQLO and other stores have incorporated repairing business models to extend the lifecycle of their clothing, one of the techniques used by Japanese fashion brand UNIQLO in their new upcycling incentive UNIQLO STUDIO (read more on reflawn news) used sashiko to strengthen and stylize used garments.
The Future of Repairs
With over 92 million tonnes of textile waste produced yearly, consumers need to start repairing and extending the life of items circulating rather than discarding and purchasing new items that will contribute to the neverending vicious consumption cycle. Sashiko is a great example of how creativity and innovation can create a beautiful outcome, a characteristic of sustainability and circular economy.
As a society, especially in the Western hemisphere; we need to stop chasing perfection in everchanging trends and start appreciating and valuing our clothing items by the story and significance we hold to them personally.
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Over time, Sashiko became a symbol of resilience, mindfulness, and a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship. Today, it inspires a slow-fashion mindset that values repair over replacement.
What is Sashiko stitching?
Sashiko is a traditional Japanese embroidery technique used to reinforce fabric through decorative, repetitive stitching patterns.
What is the purpose of Sashiko?
Sashiko was historically used to repair and reinforce workwear in Japan. Today, it is both a practical and artistic embroidery technique that promotes sustainability by extending the life of clothing.
Is Sashiko the same as embroidery?
Sashiko is a type of embroidery, but it differs in technique and purpose. While traditional embroidery is often decorative, Sashiko is both decorative and functional.
