Sashiko, Boro, and Visible Mending

This immersive 3.5-hour lecture and hands-on workshop introduces fiber artists to the rich cultural traditions and contemporary applications of *Sashiko* (a decorative reinforcement stitching technique) and *Boro* (the art of patchwork mending). We'll begin with a visual lecture exploring the historical context of these Japanese practices, examining their origins in rural necessity, their evolution into aesthetic expression, and their recent resurgence within the slow fashion and sustainability movements. Participants will gain an understanding of the symbolic meaning, regional variation, and technical structure behind traditional Sashiko patterns, while also engaging in a discussion about how visible mending serves as both a practical and political act in textile work today.

Following the lecture, artists will shift into a guided hands-on session, where they’ll practice basic Sashiko stitching techniques, experiment with layered Boro-style patchwork, and explore methods for creatively repairing or embellishing worn textiles. Each participant will work on a personal project—either mending a pre-loved garment or creating a new sample—using provided materials or their own fabric scraps. The small class size allows for personalized instruction, critical dialogue, and experimentation with how these techniques can be integrated into each artist’s broader fiber practice. No prior experience with Sashiko is necessary, though basic hand stitching familiarity is helpful.

Members: $50

Non members: $50 (discounted for Everyone's a Member in September!)

Instructor: Gail Clement (Read Gail's bio)

Materials fee: $30 cash or venmo (to be collected day of event)

Materials supplied by teacher: Japanese fabric swatches, sashiko threads, sashiko needles, stencils, marking pens, adhesive stitching transfers

Materials students could bring: Embroidery snips, straight edge, pin cushion and pins, cotton or linen item to be mended (optional)

Learn about our cancellation & COVID policies here: Workshop Policies