Sashiko is a form of Japanese embroidery that utilizes running stitches to create geometric patterns, typically done with white thread on an indigo fabric. Sashiko means "little stabs" and refers to the small stitches in the pattern(s). It is quite stunning in its simplicity. (Visit here, here, and here for more insight about Sashiko.)
I love the symmetry of Sashiko. Today's post is just one of many patterns I thought would be beautiful in needlepoint.
Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.
Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.
This is a good opportunity to remind you, dear readers, about how I approach stitch diagrams. I often use 2+ colors in a diagram to offer insight on sequence and/or thread opportunities. In other words, if there are lines of two colors, this could mean two different threads or simply clarity on how to best navigate a stitch with a single thread.
Today's two colors, in my opinion, should be two different threads, whether it be similar values with different finishes, or two different colors altogether. The stitched sample uses two colors of Trebizond silk to provide absolute clarity on how the center element (aqua lines in diagram and light pink thread in sample) is a separate element.
I'm going to bore you again with my ideas for how to use this stitch. It appears an unintentional theme of this month is background stitches. Yes, this would make a perfect background or wallpaper. The size of this pattern necessitates a larger space. I would love to use it as a sky with a matte and metallic or a ground cover with two different color threads (similar to the stitched sample).
These stitch diagrams, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.
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If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com sells stitch guides and stitch concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. 41 guides are currently available and more are in the pipeline.
I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Enjoy!