SashikoFest 2025

SashikoFest 2025 is a one-day celebration of all things sashiko, with workshops, demonstrations and displays as well as plenty to buy!

Confirmed traders include Japan Crafts, Susan Briscoe, Textile Traders, Janice Gunner and African Vintage. Each providing a plethora of tempting goodies as well as being on hand to give advice and share their knowledge.

11:00am

Susan Briscoe – The Ultimate Sashiko Sourcebook and More
Curious as to how ‘The Ultimate Sashiko Sourcebook’ came about? Join Susan to find out how the sashiko bestseller was created, her collaborations with Yuza Sashiko Guild, and how this led to her other sashiko books.

1:30pm

Janice Gunner – One Simple Stitch

An informative talk with images and items from Janice’s collection about how running stitch has been and still is used for textiles.

One simple stitch can create pattern and texture on cloth all around the world.

DEMO

The Braid Society

Exhibition of braids and demonstrations focusing on Japanese braid making techniques, which have their origins in samurai armour and are mainly seen today as kimono obi accessories.

Books, kits etc for sale.

WORKSHOP

Hitomezashi ‘One Stitch’ Sashiko, with Stephen Rowley.

This workshop is £10 and includes a kit.

If you’re an admirer of Japanese silk embroidery you’re in for a real treat. Jane (Nejiribana Designs) will be demonstrating this ancient art form, which demands an extraordinary amount of skill honed over many years of dedicated study. Joining her is Carole-Anne, who will show you exquisite Japanese beading.

Luckily, sashiko doesn’t require much more than enthusiasm and a willingness to learn! We have some great workshops and demos on the day to get you started, or improve your skills.

There is a small charge for workshops. Pre booking is not necessary; workshop times are as follows, so if you spot a free seat on the day, just jump in!

Hitomezashi ‘One Stitch’ Sashiko, with Stephen Rowley from Artension

If you’ve always wanted to have a go but aren’t sure where to start, what you need or how to do it, this workshop is for you. Stephen will show you the basics of sashiko and you’ll be able to take home your very first piece!

Susan Briscoe will be launching her special 20th anniversary edition of ‘The Ultimate Sashiko Sourcebook’. Display of original samples and quilts, plus a talk by author. Signed copies for sale.

Have you ever fancied wearing a Japanese wedding kimono? Now’s your chance! Slip on the heavy ‘uchikake’ – perhaps you’d also like to model a Japanese parasol or fan? Strike a pose and have your picture taken for posterity.

If you’re an admirer of Japanese silk embroidery you’re in for a real treat. Jane (Nejiribana Designs) will be demonstrating this ancient art form, which demands an extraordinary amount of skill honed over many years of dedicated study. Joining her is Carole-Anne, who will show you exquisite Japanese beading.

Luckily, sashiko doesn’t require much more than enthusiasm and a willingness to learn! We have some great workshops and demos on the day to get you started, or improve your skills.

There is a small charge for workshops. Pre booking is not necessary; workshop times are as follows, so if you spot a free seat on the day, just jump in!

Hitomezashi ‘One Stitch’ Sashiko, with Stephen Rowley from Artension

If you’ve always wanted to have a go but aren’t sure where to start, what you need or how to do it, this workshop is for you. Stephen will show you the basics of sashiko and you’ll be able to take home your very first piece!

Dye Your Own Sashiko Thread, with Katie from Japan Crafts – all day

Use the brand new ‘So-Me Marche’ dyeing system from Olympus to dye your own unique skein of sashiko thread. All materials are provided and there is very little mess. You can make the colours as simple or complex as you like! Kits and other bits will also be available to buy. Workshop £3 (redeemable upon purchase of a dyeing kit)

Plus more talks and workshops to be announced. Check back on our website and instagram.com/sashikofest for updates.