Discover how my journey into sashiko embroidery began from first inspiration to creating hand-embroidered denim. Learn about this timeless technique and its modern revival.
Discovering sashiko: a LOVE at first stitch
My journey into sashiko embroidery began in 2020 when I first encountered a beautifully hand-stitched denim jacket. My initial reaction? Woah, that’s cool! But my curiosity—shaped by my background as a former art conservator for major international museums—immediately kicked in: How is that made?
Delving into techniques, tools, and materials is second nature to me. So, naturally, I went down the rabbit hole of researching sashiko stitching and patterns, a traditional Japanese embroidery technique used for both mending and decorating fabric.
Exploring the art of sashiko: techniques, tools & inspiration
The first sashiko piece I saw was stitched using a simple running stitch, yet its impact was profound. Fascinated, I dove deep into learning this ancient craft—scouring the internet, visiting the library in Amsterdam, and experimenting with different embroidery techniques.
What started as a simple search turned into an ongoing passion. I quickly realized that sashiko is more than just embroidery; it’s a mindful practice, a historical art form, and a way to give new life to upcycled denim.
From learning to creating: my first sashiko denim project!
Eager to put my newfound knowledge into practice, I picked up a denim garment from my closet, threaded a needle with cotton embroidery thread, and started stitching.
The result? A sleeveless denim jacket transformed by my own hands—an item I still wear today, even as I write this very blog post!
The longevity of hand-embroidered denim...
One of the most incredible things about hand-embroidered denim is its durability. My first sashiko jacket has been washed hundreds of times over the years, yet the stitches remain intact.
This reassures me—and my customers—that when you purchase a hand-embroidered denim piece from my shop or customise your own upcycled jacket, the craftsmanship will last a lifetime.
A modern take on traditional sashiko embroidery
Fast forward a few years and countless meters of cotton thread later, sashiko embroidery still occupies my thoughts daily. While I stay true to the traditional Japanese technique, I have developed my own unique, modern approach to embroidery on denim.
Every embroidered denim jacket, jeans, or bag I create reflects a blend of tradition and innovation—infusing ancient sashiko mending methods with contemporary style.
Why sashiko embroidery feels like home 🩵
Sashiko has become the perfect intersection of my interests, skills, and artistic passions. My fascination with geometric patterns, my steady hand developed from art conservation, and my love for textile art all come together on the blank canvas of denim.
Each piece of hand-stitched denim is an expression of creativity, sustainability, and slow fashion.
I invite you to join me on this journey, whether by exploring my shop, commissioning a custom design, or simply following along as I share my passion for sashiko embroidery with the world.
Ready to own a unique hand-embroidered denim piece?
Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind jacket or want to give new life to a beloved piece of denim, I’d love to help!
✨ Browse my shop to explore my collection
✨ Request a custom design and let’s create something special together
Let’s keep the art of sashiko embroidery alive—one stitch at a time.
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Aangezien op de eerste foto van je eerste blog niet alleen mijn schutting staat van mijn Terschellingse plek, maar ook mijn broek die je op je schoot hebt, wil ik je graag laten weten dat ik elke keer als ik deze broek draag (vandaag nog!) zulke mooie complimenten krijg die eigenlijk voor jou zijn bedoeld moet ik je toch echt laten weten dat veel van de mensen die jouw borduurwerk zien op mijn broek ook zo’n borduurwerk willen op hun broek.
Hoop je komende zomer weer op m’n terras te zien zitten borduren (hoeft niet per sé op een nieuwe broek van mij 😊).
Lieve Titia,
Je woorden geven me vleugels! Echt fantastisch om te horen!
Ik verheug me ook ontzettend om komende zomer weer een paar heerlijke, inspirerende dagen samen met je door te brengen in je paradijsje. Lekker brainstormen, elkaar inspireren… en heerlijk Italiaans eten! Het is er altijd zo fijn met je!
Al mijn liefs en tot snel,
Angie.
Wat leuk en nu een broek van mij?
Hoeveel ga je daarvoor rekenen als je een mooie onderkant maakt?
Lieve groet Toby
Dag Toby,
Wat ontzettend fijn je te lezen! Dank voor je lieve reactie. Ik borduur met alle liefde een mooie onderkant op je broek. Ik bel je morgen even op.
Liefs en groetjes,
Angie
Terschelling, the island were my mothers family originally came from. They lived in West.
Your needle work is fascinating.
Dear John,
That’s wonderful!
Terschelling must hold a lot of history for you.
And thank you so much, I truly appreciate your kind words!