Sashiko stitching refers to a style of embroidery that originated in Japan. As explained by the experts at The Maui Quilt Shop, the premier quilt store in Kihei, HI, it was originally used to repair and reinforce garments. Today, however, this style is commonly used decoratively and often incorporated into quilt kits. Here is a quick guide to sashiko stitching to help you better understand these kits and where they came from.

What Are Sashiko Quilt Kits?

With repeating geometric patterns, sashiko stitching has a neat and graceful appeal. This stitch is ideal for quilting because it adds visual interest to any piece. Typically, this project is done on a colored cloth with white thread providing accents and outlines.

These stitches are spaced out precisely with two main patterns. The first pattern, moyōzashi, involves long lines of running stitches. The second pattern, hitomezashi, lays out a grid of single stitches to create a shape.

What Is the History Behind Them?

The peasant classes of Japan originally created this type of stitching in the 1600s and it became very popular by the 1800s. During that time, many workers wore homespun garments that needed to withstand the harsh pressures of daily life and winter weather. To reinforce the fabric, people incorporated this type of stitching into their garments. And when clothes became too worn to wear, sashiko stitching would be used to quilt them into other items like aprons or bags.

If you’re interested in trying a sashiko quilt kit, look no further than The Maui Quilt Shop. Committed to providing excellent customer service, their friendly staff will help you find exactly what you need in among their wide selection of fabrics, beautiful designs, and other top-notch Hawaiian quilt patterns. To learn more about their products and classes, give them a call today at (808) 874-8050. You can also visit their website for more information.