Sashiko, a traditional Japanese embroidery technique, often translates to ‘little stabs,’ embodying its basic methodology. It’s a form of decorative reinforcement stitching dating back to the Edo period (1615-1868), where it was initially used by the lower classes for mending clothes. Revitalizing your old denim using Sashiko stitching can effortlessly infuse new life into worn-out pieces while adding semi-visible detailing that elevates their aesthetic appeal.
Compared to other repair techniques, Sashiko stitching stands out for its understated elegance and stylish potential. Instead of merely masking, it emphasizes repairs, transforming ordinary denim pieces into distinctive works of art. Moreover, it extends the garment’s lifecycle and embraces the philosophy of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfections.
So, are you ready for a blue threads makeover? Here’s everything you need to revitalize your old denim with Sashiko stitching.
Understanding Sashiko Stitching
Sashiko stitches are essentially running stitches. While they might look simple, understanding their fundamental properties is vital to achieving the desired contrast, weave pattern, and durability, which are crucial characteristics of Sashiko stitching.
- Length: Sashiko stitches should be a quarter-inch long and similar in size to maintain the pattern consistency.
- Spacing: The space between each stitch should reflect the stitch length itself.
- Direction: Each stitch should start at a point farther from your body.
What You Need
- Old Denim: Any old denim piece could be a pair of jeans that you wish to repair or embellish with Sashiko stitching.
- Sashiko Needle: It’s a long, sturdy needle, allowing you to load multiple stitches at once.
- Sashiko Thread: These thick cotton threads contrast well with denim.
- Thimble: This protects your finger when pushing the Sashiko needle through the fabric.
- Ruler and Chalk: For marking guidelines.
Getting Started
Start by choosing a backside area on your denim, let’s assume it’s a pair of jeans for this guide. Clean the area, then iron it flat. Mark the area lightly where you’ll be running the threads. It could be a torn area or anywhere you wish to reinforce or beautify.
Thread Your Needle
Cut about 18″ of Sashiko thread and thread the needle, but don’t knot the end. Sashiko stitching uses a single thread, different from the doubled thread used in most hand-sewing. This method allows you to achieve a neat, flat surface.
Trace Your Pattern
Choose a Sashiko pattern, like the popular ‘rice grain’ pattern. Mark your pattern lightly with chalk in equally spaced parallel lines. The traditional Sashiko stitches are square or linear, with common patterns like waves, grids, or intersecting lines.
Pile Up The Stitches
Similar to running stitch, push the needle in and out of the fabric along the lines, loading as many stitches as you can on the needle before pulling it through entirely. The knotless thread end should be left dangling on the underside of your fabric. Be cautious to not pull the thread through completely. Remember, the space between the stitches should be as long as the stitches themselves.
Take A Turn
When you reach the end of a row, secure the stitch by looping the thread around the edge of the fabric and start a new row close to the first one. Ensure you echo its direction. Alternatively, you can start back at the other end.
Finishing the Sashiko stitching
Once the entire desired area has been covered with rows of stitches, snip the thread but don’t knot it. Instead, weave the extra back into your stitching on the underside using your needle. This maintains the stitch’s flat surface.
Care for your Sashiko Stitched Denim
Handwash your newly stitched denim and let it air dry. The cotton thread will usually shrink, tightening the stitching and securing it even more.
Revitalizing old denim with Sashiko stitching has a timeless appeal. It’s imbued with a rich Japanese culture that combines art, embroidery, and sustainability. By diving into the Sashiko world, you’re not just giving your old denim a face-lift; you’re connecting with a centuries-old tradition, promoting resourcefulness, and creating something unique from something broken or worn. With practice, you can master Sashiko stitching and add it to your fashion arsenal, taking your old denim pieces to new stylish heights.
