An exquisite, full-color guide to sashiko, a simple Japanese stitching technique that uses stunning patterns to decorate or repair clothing, accessories, and home textiles.
Requiring no special equipment other than a sewing needle and thread, Make and Mend introduces the incredibly simple technique of sashiko--a striking hand-sewing method using a running stitch to form pleasing geometric patterns. Sashiko is traditionally used to mend and repair clothing and textiles, but it can just as easily be used to create beautiful, decorative projects for the home. With fifteen projects applying a modern, on-trend aesthetic to this ancient craft, Make and Mend shows readers how to apply sashiko stitching to a variety of craft projects, such as repairing torn jeans, mending a ripped hem, and making decorative pillows, napkins, a tablecloth, and a totebag. Touching on the concepts of beauty in minimalism and resourceful simplicity, as well as a fascination with Japan and Japanese design, this easy and accessible book appeals to both the seasoned maker and total beginner.
"Jessica's wonderful new book is exactly the type of craft inspiration we need right now. Make + Mend is chock-full of ideas to make more, buy less, and get more life out of the things we love. The projects in these pages will ensure you are surrounded by pieces that have meaningful details and memories for years to come."
—GRACE BONNEY of Design*Sponge
“In Make + Mend, Jessica demonstrates how easy it can be to decorate and beautifully repair textiles. She provides techniques that help create both simple and intricate embellishments. Jessica shows that rather than replacing things, caring for items can inspire us to put more love into what we own.”
—NATALIE “ALABAMA” CHANIN, fashion designer
“The traditional folk method of sashiko should enjoy a renaissance through this book. The current desire for minimalist décor along with mending and reincarnating cherished, worn textiles makes sashiko a perfect craft to explore today. Jessica’s thoughtful and quiet way with embroidery is so well-suited for this traditional and ancient technique. There’s poetry in every motif, along with a practical functionality that’s so rarely joined with decorative needlework.”
—JENNY HART, artist, author, and embroidery designer
