Dye Journal
Explorations in Natural Dyeing, Indigo, Shibori, Weaving, Sashiko, and all things textile related.
Sashiko - Kurguri Jujizashi Stitch
Morning Sashiko before heading out for the day. This pattern is a Kurguri Jujizashi - woven 10 cross stitch. Kurguri means ‘go through’ and Jujizashi is the 10 cross stitch. Jujizashi, with the number 10, is also representative of a wish for wealth or prosperity…
Sashiko - Hana-Fukin Sampler
Hana Fukin translates to ‘Flower Cloth’, or ‘Kitchen Cloth’. These stitched cloths area small treasures, used in daily applications and also considered family heirlooms and wedding dowries. They can be used as decorative items, placemats, food coverings, gift wrapping, table runners, decorative pillows, etc. The stitches and thread reinforce the fabric, making them beautiful and also durable for use. The creation of the Hana Fukin itself is an example of patience and quiet meditation. They take time and planning to create….
Sashiko Kurguri Sashi Stitch
Kurguri means ‘go through/under’ and Sashi means stitch. This pattern combines the running stitch foundation we use in Yokogushi with a woven element. Using a contrasting treat for the weave creates more depth, and since the weave is only done on the front side (unless you add it to the back as well), you have 2 patterns in one piece; Kurguri Sashi on the front and Yokogushi on the back…
Sashiko Komezashi Stitch
Komezashi, meaning rice stitch, is a pattern that symbolizes a wish for a rich harvest and abundance. The name comes from the stitch’s appearance, which looks like the kanji character for rice…
Sashiko - Jujizashi Stitch
Jujuzashi means ‘10 cross stitch’, and the crossing of the lines resembles the kanji character for 10. By sewing over the weft and warp of the fabric, the textile is strengthened and is a wonderful way to decoratively mend clothing. The pattern symbolizes prosperity as it is ever expanding…
Japan - Osaka - JunAle Sashiko Workshop
Amazing Sashiko workshop at the studio of JunAle. The studio is in a beautiful building with a soaring ceiling. The experience was a small group, 2 other people and myself, which was wonderful and intimate.
Japan - Gifu - Aiwayu Indigo Dye Workshop - Oogangi Shibori
‘A textile artist from California, USA visited us for the Hondate Sho-Aizome experience. He has been traveling across Japan, visiting various dyeing and textile specialists, learning through workshops and deepening his understanding of Japanese craft. During his journey, he became interested in Hondate Sho-Aizome,and came all the way to our studio to experience it firsthand.’
Japan -Tokushima - Watanabes Indigo Dye Workshop - Taka Ishii Shibori 03
A beautiful afternoon workshop at @watanabes_japan 💙 I am endlessly grateful for their sharing of the tradition & history of Aizome, how they lovingly care for their sukumo indigo, tour of the beautiful farm and processing site, and an immersive experience with new friends (and animal friends 🐐)…
Japan - Tokyo - Aikuma Noren Workshop
I was beyond honored to experience the @aikuma_japanese_dyes 2 day Noren workshop with @tourokuya sensei. The instruction was phenomenal, and I learned several new techniques to expand my dyeing art. We worked on a 2 piece Noren and a smaller fabric piece, and I was able to incorporate my Taino inspired designs as patterns. Being able to honor my ancestors in this workshop made it even more special, and I will treasure these art pieces and the experience forever. I also loved learning about the history of Aikuma- an institution of natural dyeing in Japan.
Sashiko - Yokogushi Stitch
Yokogushi is the starting point most Hitomezashi patterns, meaning Horizontal rows…