Welcome to Our Sashiko Archive

Our Sashiko Archive is a collection of stories, reflections, and educational resources about Sashiko, Boro, and the cultural context surrounding Japanese hand-stitching traditions. While Sashiko is now often associated with visible mending, geometric patterns, sustainability, or slow fashion, these ideas are only one part of a much larger story.

This archive preserves more than eight years of writing, sharing, teaching, and conversation based on both research and lived experience. As someone born into a Sashiko family in Takayama, Japan, I have spent much of my life surrounded by the people, values, and stories that shaped the practice long before it became widely known overseas.

This archive is also closely connected to my book, Sashiko: The Untold Story, which explores the history, philosophy, memories, and cultural misunderstandings around Sashiko in greater depth. I hope this site becomes a place to begin, continue, or deepen your understanding of Sashiko beyond simple definitions.

Start Here

What is Sashiko?
Discover the history, purpose, and cultural background of Sashiko beyond the common stereotypes of “visible mending” or “embracing imperfection.”

What is Sashiko?
Discover the history, purpose, and cultural background of Sashiko beyond the common stereotypes of “visible mending” or “embracing imperfection.”

What is Boro?
Explore the meaning of Boro, how it emerged through generations of use and repair, and why it is best understood as an outcome rather than a technique.

Learn Sashiko from Atsushi
Find information about workshops, online classes, lectures, and opportunities to study Sashiko directly from a Japanese artisan.

About Atsushi Futatsuya
Learn about the author of this archive, his family’s Sashiko heritage, and the ongoing work of sharing and preserving stories connected to Sashiko.

Contact to Our Sashiko Story

One of the most common questions I receive is, “How can I contact you?”

Thank you for your interest in Sashiko and for taking the time to explore Our Sashiko Archives. Whether you have a question about Sashiko, a comment about an article, an inquiry about workshops, or simply wish to share your stitching journey, I appreciate hearing from readers and stitchers around the world.

Over the years, I have been fortunate to connect with people from many different backgrounds through Sashiko. Some reach out because they want to learn how to stitch. Others are interested in the history and culture behind the practice. Many simply wish to understand Sashiko beyond the images they encounter online. Every message reminds me that Sashiko continues to create meaningful connections across cultures and generations.

Before Contacting Me

You may find answers to many common questions through the resources already available online.

  • Browse the articles in Our Sashiko Archives.
  • Visit the Frequently Asked Questions section.
  • Explore the educational resources available through Sashiko Story.
  • Check workshop and online learning information before inquiring about classes.

Because I often travel for workshops and teaching opportunities, it may take some time for me to respond. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Topics I Can Help With

I am happy to answer questions related to:

  • Learning Sashiko
  • Sashiko tools and materials
  • Japanese Sashiko culture and history
  • Workshops and speaking engagements
  • Interviews, podcasts, and media inquiries
  • Collaborations related to education and cultural understanding

Stay Connected

In addition to direct contact, I regularly share stories, reflections, and educational content through my various platforms. These resources may offer additional answers and inspiration while you wait for a response.

My hope has always been to create opportunities for deeper understanding of Sashiko—not only as a stitching technique, but as a cultural practice shaped by ordinary people and everyday life.

Thank you for your interest in Sashiko and for being part of this ongoing conversation.

I look forward to hearing from you.

— Atsushi Futatsuya

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