In-depth Sashiko Hanafukin Workshop

This summer, inspired by my trip to Japan, I designed a multi-pattern hanafukin sampler for this 4-day in-depth workshop. Hanafukin means “flower dishcloth.” Traditionally, these cloths served as both practical dish towels and samplers — often sewn by mothers and given to daughters upon marriage as a reference for future mending and decoration.

Over the four sessions, you’ll learn how to draw and sew various traditional Japanese sashiko patterns. The designs will progress from simple to intricate, helping you gradually build your unshin (needle movement) skills while exploring three sashiko stitch styles: moyozashi, hitomezashi, and kugurizashi. You’ll also learn how to stitch neatly on both sides of the fabric without knots.

By the end, you’ll have mastered the sashiko unshin technique, improved your sewing efficiency, deepened your understanding of pattern meanings, strengthened your mindfulness practice, and, most delightfully, taken home your own hanafukin sampler to guide you in future projects.

Skill Level: All levels welcome
Length: 13.5 hours for returning students, 14.5 hours for new students
Participants: 5–7
Instructor: Xiaoxiao Yarn
Teaching Language: English
Materials Provided: All materials and tools are provided, including authentic Japanese sarashi cloth.

Note: A minimum of five (5) participants is required. If the minimum is not met 24 hours before the course begins, the workshop will be cancelled and a full refund will be issued.