Sashiko and Visible Mending
Pop-Up | Winnipeg
Date
Sunday, April 26, 2026
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (including a 1-hour lunch break)
Location
The Third Place
66 King Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 1H6
Price
$180 + taxes
Sashiko & Visible Mending Pop-Up — Winnipeg
Hosted by Atelier Xiaoxiao Yarn
Welcome to the enchanting world of Sashiko, a traditional Japanese embroidery technique that originated in the 17th century. Initially developed to mend and reinforce fabric, Sashiko is celebrated for its practicality and its simple yet striking geometric patterns.
This special pop-up workshop by Atelier Xiaoxiao Yarn, visiting from Montréal, introduces participants to the beauty and rhythm of slow stitching through both traditional sashiko techniques and visible mending.
During the first half of the workshop, you will create a small stitched piece using Sashiko. Through this process, you will learn and practice Sashiko Unshin (運針), the characteristic needle movement known for its efficiency and meditative rhythm. You will also learn how to draw traditional Sashiko patterns and explore the meanings behind several classic motifs, giving you the confidence to continue stitching more complex patterns on your own.
In the second half of the workshop, we will focus on visible mending. You will learn simple techniques to repair worn or damaged clothing using Sashiko stitching. Participants are welcome to bring a garment that needs repair (optional) or practice on sample fabric provided during the workshop.
Join us for this tranquil and hands-on experience under the guidance of Sashiko artisan Xiaoxiao of Atelier Xiaoxiao Yarn.
Skill level: Beginner-friendly — all levels welcome
Duration: 6.5 hours (plus a 1-hour break)
Participants: 5–10 people
Materials provided: All necessary materials and tools will be supplied.
Minimum Registration & Refund Policy
This workshop requires a minimum of five (5) participants. If the minimum number is not reached six (6) days prior to the workshop date, the event will be cancelled, and all registered participants will receive a full refund.
Please note that workshop registration is non-refundable for any reason. However, participants may transfer their spot to another person if they are unable to attend. Participants may also contact the host to request a transfer of their ticket to someone on the waiting list, if applicable.
Xiaoxiao Yarn | Sashiko practitioner and Instructor
Xiaoxiao is a sashiko practitioner and instructor based in Montreal, Canada. Her journey with this 17th-century Japanese hand-sewing and mending technique began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she moved to the countryside. While seeking to reconnect with everyday objects, sashiko, known for its simple charm and efficiency, quickly became essential in her life, integrating needlework with mindfulness practice.
In 2021, Xiaoxiao launched her YouTube channel, 'Xiaoxiao Yarn,' where she now shares her experiences with over 76,000 subscribers. Through sashiko, she has deepened her appreciation for everyday household items, enhanced her relationship with nature, and furthered her personal development.
Since 2023, Xiaoxiao has been teaching sashiko workshops in Montreal, sharing her knowledge and passion within her community, and inviting others to embrace this meditative and sustainable craft.
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The calmness and attentiveness I felt during the workshop still linger with me afterward. I truly enjoyed the structure and guidance Xiaoxiao provided to each individual, ensuring we felt comfortable with the materials and that the process was broken down beautifully. It was such a lovely afternoon of stitching.
- Tam N.
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
L'atelier de sashiko pour débutant était vraiment bien fait. Xiaoxiao était vraiment gentille et patiente et elle expliquait très bien en anglais et en français. Je recommande cet atelier à tous les curieux de la fibre. J'ai trouvé que la pratique est méditative et viens titiller une partie de mon cerveau que je ne connaissais pas. Absolument à essayer!
- Malorie O.
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The course was wonderful, I have signed up for another course in August. I appreciate the fact that the courses are held in my city. The instructor was clear and concise and was able to help individual students working at their speed. A nice group of 7 students. Thank you Xiaoxiao for making learning Sashiko possible.
- Linda S.