The ideal fabric to use for sashiko embroidery needs to be loosely-woven and medium-weight. For this reason, our plain range has been curated only to include linen and Japanese cotton fabrics that will deliver the best results for sashiko.

Sashiko Fabric Traditionally you use a dark blue evenweave fabric from linen or cotton which are heavier than broadcloth. We recommend using evenweave fabrics rather than tightly woven plain fabrics. The open structure of the evenweave fabric makes it easier to weave the needle through the fabric layers.

Derived from the Japanese boroboro, meaning something tattered or repaired, boro refers to the practice of reworking and repairing textiles (often clothes or bedding) through piecing, patching and stitching, in order to extend their use.

Sashiko is a type of traditional Japanese folk embroidery which uses a simple running stitch to create beautiful geometric patterns. Sashiko is both functional and decorative, used for patchwork and the mending and strengthening of clothing and textiles in the home.