Why you may ask? Because of the work I had done on my Ahsoka cosplay. I had worked a bit on the sashiko on the hakama, but wanted to be able to do it better.
Plus I really enjoyed the process
The teacher, Atsushi Futatsuya, is an excellent teacher. He comes from a family in Japan that has done sashiko over many years -- his mother/father, grandmother, uncles, etc..
Because sashiko is a Japanese craft, I really wanted to make sure I understood it & appreciated it from the Japanese perspective.
I received the student packet in the mail. There are several recorded videos that went over the basics along with the materials. He has a personalized 1:1 session where you can ask questions and he can see your stitching to ensure that you're comfortable with the technique. He's also available by email for anything additional. He's also got a support group for his students.
I learned a lot -- not just how to stitch and specific techniques, but the importance of Japanese sashiko in Japanese culture.
I highly recommend the online course.
The Student Kit
In the packet is all the materials you need to get started: sashiko thread, needle, fabric & lining, etc., The packet contains fabric with a pre-printed template that you turn into a small bag. One side is an asanoha pattern, and he gives you enough information to draw another of your choice.
I followed the asanoha (hemp leaf) pattern, then drew my own on the opposite site.
The bag & lining
Here's the finished bag.
I REALLY enjoyed working on this project; it's very soothing. It was a bit tricky to start it at first, but overall it has a nice quiet meditative feel to it.
