Shippou (七宝) is often explained as a pattern referring to the seven treasures of

Shippou, one of the most beautiful and symbolic patterns in Sashiko, holds layers of meaning—just as learning the art itself holds deeper lessons beyond stitches. This March 2025, in Stuart, FL, I will be offering a special 3-Day Sashiko Workshop, beginning with the foundation of the craft, much like understanding the significance behind a pattern like Shippou.

The workshop will begin with [Core & Essence], where we explore not only the stitches but the philosophy behind Sashiko. Like learning the precise way to hold a knife before chopping vegetables, mastering the Form (Kata) is essential in Sashiko. Without it, the stitches lose their purpose and the meditative quality of the art is missed. Shippou, with its interlocking circles representing the seven treasures of Buddhism, reminds us that Sashiko is not just about mending fabric, but about mending ourselves, our focus, and our spirit.

As we move through the workshop, we’ll progress to [Application & Practice], where the simple act of stitching becomes a personal expression. Just as the Shippou pattern continues infinitely, participants will realize that the possibilities in Sashiko are limitless once the fundamentals are understood. You’ll learn how to apply these techniques in your own projects, while understanding the centuries-old tradition that lives within every stitch.

This 3-Day Sashiko Workshop in Florida will cover almost everything we can teach, from the basics to advanced practices, offering a rare chance to fully immerse yourself in this traditional Japanese art. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience, this workshop will not only improve your technical skills but also offer a new way to connect with Sashiko on a deeper, more meaningful level. We believe it will enrich your understanding of the craft—and perhaps even your life—just as Shippou teaches the beauty of endless connections.

Shippou (七宝) is often explained as a pattern referring to the seven treasures of Buddhism: Gold, Silver, Lapis Lazuli, Agate, Seashell, Amber, and Coral. Also, it can indicate the Abundance of treasure – which wishes for wealth.
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As one interpretation, we also cherish this pattern because of “Continuous Circle”. The Circle (円) in Japanese sound “EN”, and the same sound “EN (縁)” indicate something “fortunate of coming across”. Well. “EN” is another Japanese word that requires explanation in order to fully describe in addition to the actual translation – Here, I use the word “EN” as appreciation to the continuous connection to those who respect, care for, and acknowledge the Japanese Stories behind the word Sashiko.
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It is interesting that the Shippou pattern doesn’t need to change (skip) the line when we find a one-stroke line. I enjoy stitching this Pattern to fully embrace the importance of “continuity”, and I believe that the meaning of pattern can bring us the significance of “bonding” through mutual respect & understanding.
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Shippou is just a pattern for some. We make it more than just a pattern.
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七宝。昔から日本のデザインの中で頻繁に登場する、縁起の良い、そしてとてもバランスの良い幾何学模様です。私も好きな柄で、円が続く柄→「ご縁」が続く柄として、良く登場する柄かなと思います。
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刺し始める前に少し頭の体操と準備をするだけで、一筆書きで柄を完結させることができるのも、この柄の面白いところです。刺し子の柄は、刺し始めがあれば、刺し終わりがあります。柄が完成した時が（一応の）終わりで、また新しい布を使うことで、新しい始まりがあります。そんな当たり前の「始まりと終わり」なのですが、私が望んでいることは、「途切れない縁」なんだろうと思うのです。英語圏での刺し子に物申しているのは、この「縁」が蔑ろにされているような気がしているからなのだろうと思います。縁って「繋がり」であって、繋がるためには、昔と未来を「今」を通して結びつける必要があって、その「今」に一緒に七宝の刺し子を楽しんでいる人達の言葉を、しっかりと丁寧に残して行きたいな…と。柄の見た目だけを重視する刺し子だけでなく、物語も一緒に包み込んでくれるような刺し子を。
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2024-10-19 15:44:13

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