Counted Sashiko Embroidery by Keiko Sakamoto

Counted Sashiko Embroidery: 31 Projects with 80 Kogin and 200 Hishizashi Patterns

The first book with comprehensive pattern templates for both kogin and hishizashi methods of sashiko

Sashiko's beauty is understandably popular, and this is the first book on stitching two little-known traditional styles: kogin and hishizashi.

Japanese expert Keiko Sakamoto—who began her intensive study of them while living in the American Midwest—explains these intriguing decorative embroidery styles. Book highlights include:

• 31 projects, with step-by-step photo instructions, range from a simple bookmark to advanced wall tapestries

• Increasing project difficulty levels satisfy both novices and experienced sashiko stitchers

• Photos of vintage pieces, many rarely seen outside museums, showcase the craft's origins in northern Japan

• One of the most extensive libraries of traditional kogin and hishizashi pattern templates to be found anywhere (80 and 200 templates, respectively), for ongoing reference and use

This book shares authentic Japanese folk patterns with embroidery enthusiasts, quilters, knitters, and weavers, and inspires with stunning photographs of the embroidery on rarely seen vintage kimono.