Sashiko Stitching: An Introduction
Sashiko Stitching: An Introduction with Beth Ross Johnson
This class will introduce Sashiko, a technique of Japanese functional embroidery that combines embroidery, patchwork mending, and quilting. Students will explore the history which is rooted in Buddhist textiles and the folk traditions of northern Japan, and learn the basics of two types of sashiko and boro. Quick sampling exercises will be introduced during class time and there will be time for stitching during class and off-hours. Students will have the option to collect stitches into a pattern book or complete small projects.
Sashiko refers to the folk stitching of Japan that was used to reinforce, repair or embellish work clothing and household textiles. Today it is a popular needlework pastime with practitioners all over the world. Learn the geometric Hitomezashi style, continue with a more freehand approach of Myouzashi used to make leaf, flower or overall patterns. Then, try the stitched patchwork style of Boro and learn the history of these techniques. Keep the upcoming gifting season in mind as you plan small projects to pursue after class.
This small group class is presented in collaboration with John C. Campbell Folk School and Lessonface. Participants should enroll at least two weeks before start to ensure materials kits arrive in time. If registering after this point, your kit may arrive after the first session. Students are invited to attend an optional Orientation and Closing Ceremony to connect with various online Folk School classes.
Class Materials
Your class registration fee includes a materials kit with a value of $16 shipped to your door. Residents outside the USA will pay the difference in shipping.
The kit includes:
-Practice fabric to stitch on for each class
-Sashiko thread
-Needles
-Handouts
-Postage
Students will also want to provide:
-Scissors
-Needle threader
-Appropriate eyewear
-Supply sources for future projects and recommendations for additional tools, resources will be discussed during the first class.
Age Range
18+
Skill Level
Beginner
Contact the Teacher
Send a direct message from the teacher's profile page with any questions you might have about the class.
About the John C. Campbell Folk School & Lessonface
Since 1925, the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, North Carolina has transformed lives, and brought people together in a nurturing environment for experiences in learning and community life that spark self-discovery. Since 2012, Lessonface has connected more than 30,000 students with over 2,500 great teachers for live music, language, and arts lessons online, delivering on our mission to help students achieve their goals while treating teachers equitably.
When
The class will meet for three weekly 80-min live online sessions on Thursdays at 7 pm ET | 4 pm PT on the schedule below. The first session is on November 7.
Enrolled students receive 30-day access to the video recordings of the classes.
How It Works
Enroll above to save your spot in the class. Lessonface will send you a confirmation right away, and a Zoom link 24 hours before each session's start time. You can log into your Lessonface dashboard to access class materials, communicate with your instructor, join the live Zoom session, and access the class recordings and chat transcript afterward. Contact us with any questions. This class, and all lessons and classes on Lessonface, are covered by the Lessonface Guarantee.
How It Works
Enroll above to save your spot in the class. Lessonface will send you a confirmation right away, and a Zoom link 24 hours before the class start time. You can log into your Lessonface dashboard to access class materials, communicate with your instructor, join the live Zoom session, and access the class recordings and chat transcript afterward.
Refund Policy: To cancel an enrollment or request a refund, contact [email protected]. For 30+ days before, we refund 95%. Between 30 and 5 days, receive a 75% refund. No refunds within 5 days of class start date. Materials kit fees are non-refundable.
Students Say
⬆️ Back to top
Susan B. on February 12, 2023
I learned how to do the Japanese embroidery. The class was a safe space to learn a new skill and about the supplies necessary.
½
Verified Student on April 8, 2022
Broadened my knowledge of Sashiko, via presentation and hands on experience. Instructor provided materials to each of us prior to start of class, which was extremely valuable to extend the experience.
Izumi H. on April 8, 2022
The instructor is very knowledgeable about the subject she teaches. I came out of the class with better understanding of the subject and confidence to work on my own in future.
Rebecca N. on April 1, 2021
Catheryn M. on March 30, 2021
Loved it! Learned a lot! I prefer in person though, on a campus, because there are too many distractions working from home. However I must say the cost of the on line class was very reasonable.
Verified Student on March 29, 2021
Anna . on March 29, 2021
It was interested an well organized. The only issue I had is that I felt the teacher should have had a separate camera to demonstrate techniques. I took a design class the week before with Tommye Scanlin. She actually had three cameras to show different angles. It really helped.
Pat S. on March 20, 2021
I loved it! Instructor very knowledgeable, a good teacher and open to questions. Enthusiastic, as well. Wonderful to have access to such a knowledgeable teacher without having to travel.
Beth Johnson
Beth began weaving in 1970. She is a student of Norman Kennedy, has had two extensive stays in Japan to study folk textiles, and holds an MFA in textiles from Georgia State University. A Folk School instructor since 1983, Beth currently lives in western North Carolina, where she weaves and teaches. She completed yoga teacher training through Asheville Yoga Center in 2011.