Making hand-stitched Christmas keepsakes is a deeply personal, relaxing craft. Using the art of slow stitch (Sashiko) we will create timeless and elegantly simple decorations.
Sashiko is a form of Japanese embroidery that involves stitching and quilting fabric. Born out of repair in the spirit of cherishing an object or item of clothing.
Historically Sashiko was developed out of necessity and a Japanese philosophy as we would describe, ‘make do and mend’, which emphasises not being wasteful. Fabric was a precious commodity, and the ruling classes imposed strict regulations on the types of fabrics and colours the working class could use. This led to ingenious methods for extending the life of what was available, primarily hand-woven hemp or ramie dyed with indigo. This method is often referred to as Boro.
Goal: Participants will complete a small, layered fabric tree decoration (maybe two), stitched with a simple, traditional Sashiko pattern, ready for final trimming and edge binding. The primary focus is on mastering the running stitch technique, as a decorative embellishment, creating a keepsake Christmas tree decoration or hanging.
Target Audience: Beginner to Intermediate Crafters
This is a 6 hour day workshop.
Required Materials (Per Participant)
Provided -
- Fabric: Medium-weight cotton (one for the top/stitching layer, one for the backing). Some decorative fabrics and trims will be provided also.
- Insulation: Cotton wadding or batting (for padding and giving a 3D depth to a 2D project.
- Thread: Traditional white Sashiko thread (thicker than embroidery floss).
- Needle: One dedicated long Sashiko needle (makes loading multiple stitches easier).
- Marking: Disappearing fabric pen or white tailor's chalk pencil.
- Tools: Small sharp scissors, straight pins, a small thimble (optional but recommended for pushing the long needle).
- participants could be encouraged to bring their own scraps of fabric or threads that may be important to them or that they would like to use for embellishment.
- If you prefer to use your own sewing kit, you are welcome to bring this for your own use.
About the Artist:
Nicky Bell is a passionate artist with extensive experience in Sumie ink and watercolour painting. She is known for her expressive style and ability to capture the beauty of nature. More recently known for simple creative textile project workshops, born from her love of textiles and teaching it in schools. Nicky is a patient and encouraging instructor, dedicated to helping students discover their creative potential.
Date: Saturday 28 November
Time: 10.30am - 4.30pm
