Sashiko: The Untold Story: The History, Technique and Philosophy Behind Japanese Hand-stitching
Discover the true meaning of Sashiko beyond the stitches.
“I thought I was picking up a book about Sashiko techniques and patterns, but Sashiko: The Untold Story turned out to be something far more special – by the final page, Sashiko no longer feels like a technique but an old friend; a beautiful and unforgettable read.” Anastasia Zhelezniak, Whynotstitching
As Sashiko grows in popularity around the world, its history and meaning are often overlooked. In Sashiko: The Untold Story, Japanese Sashiko artisan Atsushi Futatsuya shares a richer understanding of this traditional craft, revealing the culture, philosophy and everyday practices behind the stitches.
Raised in a third-generation Sashiko family in Japan, Atsushi combines personal stories, historical insight and practical knowledge to explore Sashiko beyond its patterns and techniques. Through beautiful photography, illustrations and conversations with fellow artisans, he uncovers the values and wisdom that have shaped the practice for generations.
Inside, you’ll discover:
· The history and cultural significance of Sashiko
· Traditional techniques and their proper application
· The philosophy and mindset behind the craft
· Stories from Sashiko artisans and practitioners
· Insights into cultural appreciation and preservation
Perfect for hand stitchers, textile artists, embroiderers, visible menders and anyone fascinated by Japanese craft traditions, Sashiko: The Untold Story offers a thoughtful new perspective on one of the world’s most celebrated textile arts.
Whether you’re discovering Sashiko for the first time or deepening an existing practice, this book will help you see beyond the stitches and connect with the living tradition behind them.
From the Publisher
This book is not a practical guide to learning techniques or creating Sashiko, but a heartfelt journey into the soul of a craft that has been simplified in its rise to popularity.
Discover the original purpose and deeper meaning of Sashiko
The Changes in Sashiko
The Sashiko revival and boom; and Sashiko practiced by artisans today
Learn about the Core and Essence of Sashiko
What makes it Sashiko?
Delve into the cultural significance and history of Sashiko
Uncover the true essence of Sashiko with this thoughtfully crafted and must-have guide for all hand stitchers.
About the Author
Atsushi Futatsuya is a third generation descendant of a surviving Sashiko family in Gifu Prefecture, raised among threads, needles, fabrics and the dedication of many Sashiko artisans. He launched the Sashi.Co project to showcase both his own work and that of his mother, Keiko, who has over 40 years of experience in Sashiko stitching. In 2017, he founded Upcycle Stitches LLC and later created the platform Sashiko Story (sashikostory.com) to share the beauty and philosophy of Sashiko with the world through articles.