[KUGURI ZASHI] Weaving Stitch - Kikko Zashi

Hello, Sashiko Lovers! It's Jun.

There are many types of Sashiko. I mainly introduce traditional patterns such as ASANOHA (Hemp leaf), SHIPPO (Seven treasures). There are Hitome Zashi (One stitch Sashiko), KOGIN, HISHI ZASHI, etc were created in Japan a long time ago. Also you can see modern Sashiko style stitchings now a days. New patterns, BORO inspired, and Chiku Chiku, etc.

I would like to introduce KUGURI ZASHI today. KUGURI (noun.) means "passing through". You pass the thread through the stitches. Many patterns can be created by changing the threading method.

Pattern : KIKKO (Turtle Shell)

Preparation

 (Using Olympus dot print fabric)* Dot spaced every 5 mm

1. Make the centre lines. - Optional. If you want to make the pattern centred.

2. Draw the frame. - Optional.

3. Draw stitching pattern.

Stitching

1. Make a knot. I suggest making knot at the beginning and the end of stitching. This make your stitches stable and will help you when you pass the thread through the stitches.

2. Stitch. Connect the dots where the marks are. Don't forget ease the stitches with your fingers. Do not pull the thread too much.

3. When you go to the next line, do not pull the thread too much, but do not leave too much. It sounds complicated but "slightly loosen"is the best.

4. When you change the thread, just make a knot. Ideally, at the end of lines.

5. Done! Just in case, to make sure, please ease the stitches.

KUGURI - Weaving

1. Make a knot.

2. Stitch from the back side, stitch out just outside of the first stitch.

3. Using the needle eye side, pass the thread through the first stitch.

4. Pass the thread through the stitches like zigzag. Please use the needle eye side. Do not pull the thread too much.

5. At the end of a line, pass the thread through the last stitch, and stitch in just outside of the stitch.

6. When you move to the next line, stitch out from outside of the first stitch of the next line. Do not pull the thread too much. A little bit loosen recommended.

7. Keep continue zigzag.

8. When you change the thread, ideally at the end of a line, please make a knot. 

9. Done!

10. If you want to make a frame, please stitch around.

To erase the dots, rinse the fabric in the water and rub softly. Dry and iron it from the back side.

 How was it? I hope you like it. As I always think, Sashiko doesn't have specific rules. The techniques and the tips have been carried on generations to generations. I am just showing a way which I think comfortable with. So, please don't worry to make a mistakes. Because basically there is no mistakes!

Talk to you soon,

Jun xx