I am having a hard time with Blogger - I can't stay logged in, to comment on other blogs. I keep reading my usual blogs but I can't comment and it's so frustrating! I've tried googling solutions, and I just can't figure it out. I'm hoping a visit to the "genius bar" will help. But if you have an idea, let me know!
Anyway, lately I am enjoying exploring this primitive, free style of sashiko. This style was developed by Akiko Ike and you can read about her in this interview here. I just love her philosophy of using old cloths and making them stronger with the stitches. And whereas often in Japan there is an emphasis on doing things just right, just as the sensei instructs, in this case, we are free to be casual and individualistic, free and playful.
This is a small piece I purchased at Blue and White in Tokyo in 2013:
These could become wash cloths, dust cloths, or just little somethings to set on a table, perhaps under a casual vase of flowers.
I used cheesecloth and old washcloths, and a random variety of sashiko threads. Very soothing easy work while watching Netflix in the evenings with David. Watching something with Subtitles (OK, have you seen Terrace House?!) is no problem with this kind of free wheeling stitching.
My pieces will fade and become more interesting with use and washings (just like the homey wabi sabi quilts I like).
I like the rectangular shape - easy to fold in half and just the right size.
It's sort of the "scrappy" version of sashiko... or the sashiko version of crocheted dish cloths! The wabi sabi of sashiko for sure.
xo
Cynthia
Looks like a relaxing, creative outlet!
ReplyDeleteMine are all made of re-purposed terrycloth rags, and they get so dirty even being regularly washed, that I would feel sad to see those colorful stitches being soiled. I share your frustration with Blogger, and it is hard having my guru living half a world away. Sometimes he can share my screen and fix things and sometimes talk me through. Hope the problem will be solved soon.
ReplyDeletegorgeous variety of patterns created with the stitches.
ReplyDeleteHow inspiring! I love the texture you have created with these. I give all my old towels to the animal shelter. I think I will save a few now!
ReplyDeleteSorry about your blogger woes. So frustrating! I loved seeing these gorgeous stitching. Sometimes I think it would be easy to quit with the quilting and just do a deep dive into stitching.:)
ReplyDeleteLove these pieces. I bet they feel really nice with all that texture. Sorry you're having issues, there is a solution and the Apple Store should be able to help. happy friday!
ReplyDelete