Abstract

Discover the lifetime passion of Akie Ginza, an active Sashiko artist who fell in love with the craft and dedicated her whole life to it. Published when she was 91 years old (in 2022), this book is her ultimate masterpiece.

This is a complete, faithful reprint of the original edition, preserving all the wonderful content just as it was! It features 171 patterns, including timeless traditional designs and her highly popular original motifs like "Hydrangea" (Ajisai). You'll also find beautiful inspiration for clothing and small accessories made with these patterns.

The 171 patterns include:

6 Kuguri-zashi (threaded Sashiko)

55 Hitome-zashi (one-stitch Sashiko)

79 Geometric patterns

31 Pictorial motifs (representational patterns)

It also offers detailed, step-by-step explanations of basic hand-sewing, pattern drafting, and how to make the projects—perfect for both beginners and experienced stitchers!

Author’s Information

Born in 1931, Akie Ginza is an incredibly energetic and active Sashiko artist in her 90s!

Her journey with Sashiko began unexpectedly. While running a natural food restaurant in Tokyo, her love for everyday cotton kimonos led her to open a cotton textile shop—where she had her fateful encounter with Sashiko. Completely captivated by its beauty and the joy of stitching, she dedicated her life to the craft, opening classes and shops across Japan to share its charm.

Today, she lives a beautiful, slow life in a traditional kominka (old Japanese folk house) nestled in the mountains of Hinohara Village, Tokyo. Her days are completely devoted to Sashiko—indigo-dyeing fabrics, teaching, and writing. Amazingly, she also single-handedly tends to her large vegetable garden and trees!

You can catch a glimpse of her inspiring, nature-filled life in the book's special feature, "Letters from Hinohara Village."