Sashiko Workshop

Learn traditional Sashiko stitching with Jun Brealey. 

Originating in Japan about 500 years ago, today Sashiko still remains close to the heart of contemporary Japanese textile creatives such as Jun who will share this stitching technique with you.  

During this workshop Jun will introduce you to Sashiko and the stories that make it historically unique. You will be introduced to popular patterns and will learn how to prepare the materials. After that Jun will guide you through the basic techniques and show you how to stitch your chosen patterns.

By the end of the workshop, you will be well into creating a small Sashiko bag or placemat to be completed in your studio or at home.

About Sashiko:

Sashiko was first developed in Japan in response to people's daily needs. About 500 years ago, during the Edo period, people in farming and fishing communities were often poor and unable to afford new cotton fabrics to make their garments. Instead, they patched, mended and reinforced old garments. They used simple running stitches initially and as the tradition evolved, beautiful and more complex geometric patterns emerged. This stitching tradition was mainly women's work, passed down from generation to generation in these communities. 

About the workshop facilitator: 

Jun has been teaching Sashiko in Adelaide for about 7 years. As a younger person she watched her grandma work on her Sashiko projects, and at that time it was thought to be something the older generation engaged in. 

After her father passed away and while being a support to her recently widowed mother, Jun began her own Sashiko journey, eventually bringing this tradition to Adelaide. 

Sashiko is now a major passion for Jun, and her expertise is very much in demand.  

Find out more about Jun and Sashiko here

What you need to know

• Suitable for beginners 18 years and older (familiarity with basic stitching preferred).
• We supply the materials but please bring along your own note taking materials.
• If your circumstances change and you can no longer attend this workshop, please email nvouis@ahc.sa.gov.au before 5pm, Thursday 7 August 2025. After this time and date we cannot issue refunds.
• Bring your own snacks. Tea and coffee provided.

This workshop is presented as part of Fabrik's Heritage Workshop Program, a series of skills development and cultural knowledge-sharing workshops hosted by makers who reflect the rich heritage of our diverse crafting communities.

We are currently looking for makers who may wish to share their inherited or culturally diverse creative skills. Find out how to apply here.

Inclusion in the Fabrik mailing list

By registering for a Fabrik workshop or event your name and email address will be added to our contact list. This means from time to time you will receive Fabrik program updates by email. If you wish to opt out, please email the Public Programs Officer (nvouis@ahc.sa.gov.au) directly with Contact List Opt-Out in the subject heading and your full name in the message.