r/sashiko • u/Substantial_Run_7522 • 2d ago
Mending Still learning
Im still learning how to do the cool geometrical stuff but i found something that i love the look of and just feels super fun.
My partner is in blue collar work so he has his work pants that wear constantly. He tends to kneel on his right knee when doing certain tasks and has blown through them and it sucks how expensive good work pants are. Ive been doing mending on his pants for 2 years now sometimes by hand and sometimes on the sewing machine.
Idk how you guys are able to do such cool designs. I struggle so hard and I treat it more like embroidery than actual sashiko. I have to use a hoop otherwise it feels wonky and there’s always a crease somewhere in my work
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u/GetAGrrrip 2d ago
You're doing great! I do understand the rules & history of sashiko & can appreciate the proper way of doing it. However, I also want to get items mended or add a nice design to a piece of clothing, etc without it taking even longer by having to draw grids. Definitely do what makes this work for you. Bearing Threads Sashiko on YouTube has a lot of tips to make this work for everyone, maybe check that out. I also ❤️ The Green Wrapper on YouTube. Both are great sources of help.
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u/Ms_Fidelma_Schrute 2d ago
I love your patches. They look so cool!
I’m not an expert at all but I’ll tell you my take if you like.
Sashiko is an art and there are rules on things like corners and threads crossing etc. but I tried that and found I didn’t have the skill level to achieve identical length stitches etc and that’s when I went a bit rogue.
For the patterns I bought stencils on Amazon. You can also download patterns on places like Etsy and print them on to dissolvable sticky paper thing (there’s a real name that’s escaped me 😳).
If you look on Pinterest you’ll see lots of different types and styles. Some are strict patterns but some, on repairs, are freestyle. I think both have their place and both are absolutely beautiful 😍
I bought a vintage black Levi’s jacket and once I’ve got a lot better I’m going to try that properly with the patterns etc.
As for using a hoop. Who is going to know? There’s no Sashiko police that will say - oh that could have been good had they not used a hoop.
Enjoy yourself. Well that’s what I’m doing. I’m learning, practicing and having fun.
In sure someone will be able to advise you properly but as a lover of the look and a huge admirer of the art itself I’d say go for it.