Needlecrafts Embroidery Embroidery Patterns

Sashiko Patterns, Projects, and Resources

Learn the Art of This Elegant Japanese Embroidery Style

The traditional technique of Japanese embroidery is sashiko, dragonflies
MaxCab / Getty Images

Sashiko is a form of Japanese folk embroidery using a variation of a running stitch to create a patterned background. Traditionally made in geometric patterns with white cotton thread on indigo blue fabric, the designs include straight or curved lines of stitching arranged in a repeating pattern that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Sashiko embroidery has been used in Japan for centuries, dating back to the Edo era of the 1600s to the 1800s. The Japanese word sashiko means "little stabs" and refers to the small stitches used in this form of needlework. This style of embroidery and the "sashiko stitch" was used to reinforce or repair worn fabric or tears with patches, making the darned piece ultimately stronger and warmer. 

  • 01 of 08

    Basic Traditional Patterns

    Sashiko Patterns
    Mollie Johanson

    To get started with sashiko embroidery, you can try eight free traditional patterns. You can find full-size patterns for each design as well as a diagram showing you how to work the sashiko stitch. Another set of eight patterns are also available.

  • 02 of 08

    Modified Sashiko Designs

    Embroidered Sashiko Pattern

    Mollie Johanson

    If you love the look of sashiko patterns but want to try something a little different, you can experiment with changing up sashiko embroidery designs. Work with patterns in different ways, mix up the colors, or use non-sashiko stitches to open up a whole new world of embroidery options.

  • 03 of 08

    Purl Soho's Sashiko Tutorial

    Purl Bee Sashiko Pattern
    The Purl Bee

    Purl Soho, a needlecrafter's paradise in New York City, offers an outstanding sashiko tutorial, which includes materials and stitching techniques using a pre-printed sashiko pattern.

    In addition to the basics, Purl Soho has a few fun projects that feature sashiko designs. Their reversible sashiko placemats are especially delightful.

  • 04 of 08

    20 Sashiko Embroidery Tutorials and Projects

    Japanese sashiko hand quilting in seikaiha (ocean waves) pattern
    NNehring / Getty Images

    Sara Curtis of Radiant Home Studios collected 20 great links for creating beautiful items with sashiko. If you're wondering what to make with Japanese embroidery techniques, this is a perfect place to get started.

    Continue to 5 of 8 below
  • 05 of 08

    Easy Sashiko Kitchen Towel Project

    Simple Sashiko Towel

    The Spruce / Mollie Johanson

    For an easy project that is also useful, try making a kitchen towel with a band of your favorite sashiko design. All you need is a colorful ready-to-stitch towel and some sashiko thread or Perle cotton.

  • 06 of 08

    Sake Puppets Tips and Diagrams

    Sashiko Coasters

    Sake Puppets / Flickr / CC By 2.0

    An embroiderer inspired by her visit to Japan started Sake Puppets to sell her sashiko-inspired wares. Sake Puppets features a simple, but effective tutorial for sashiko. It includes helpful tips and diagrams for getting your stitching just right. The Sake Puppets blog has some wonderful ideas, sashiko samples, and a free pattern, plus you'll find PDF sashiko patterns in the artist's Etsy shop.

  • 07 of 08

    Sashiko-Stitched Sachet

    Sashiko Sachet

    The Spruce / Mollie Johanson

    For a small project, start with a single sashiko pattern and a frame. Then, sew your finished stitching onto a sachet pocket to freshen up ​your dresser drawers. It is fast to put together and can make a great gift.

  • 08 of 08

    KimonoMomo Video Tutorials

    Sashiko Pattern
    Kimonomomo

    KimonoMomo is an Etsy store offering an extensive selection of sashiko supplies, patterns, and kits. Along with traditional colors and designs, the shop offers a few styles of sashiko patterns that you might not have seen before. The store offers everything you need in order to try your hand at sashiko and even a few ​YouTube videos with some helpful instructions.