Sashiko needlework originated as a practical, simple running stitch used to repair or strengthen clothing, to patch worn garments and to hold layers of fabric together for extra warmth. Sashiko translates to ‘little stabs’, a reference to the actual act of stitching through cloth. Given its origins out of necessity, its practical impact and its ultimate beauty, sashiko is truly the embodiment of form and function.

This tutorial is a demonstration of how the sashiko hitomezashi (persimmon stitch) stitch can be worked into straight stockinette. The tutorial covers how to embroider the pattern in two different intervals through conceptual drawings and photos of swatches and discusses how to incorporate it into your choice of fiber weight. A pattern for a headband, which features this beautiful stitch pattern and an adjustable closure, is included.

For the headband:

Yarn
DK weight
~30g of MC to make the headband
~5g of CC for the embroidery

My Samples
Black:
Marianated Yarns Playtime DK
100% MerinoNot Quite Black

Navy:
Little Fox Yarns Bōsa
65% Wool – Merino, 20% Silk,
15% Other Animal – Yak
Threat Level Midnight

Sappphire:
Magpie Fibers
80% Merino, 10% Cashmere goat,
10% Nylon
Bell Bottom Blues

All samples were embroidered with Marianated Yarns Playtime DK in the colorway Bumble.

Tools
US 3 (3.25 mm) 24” circular needles
Additional US 3 (3.25 mm) needle
(for the 3-Needle Bindoff)
Darning needle
Gauge
7 sts and 9 rows / inch (2.5 cm)
straight stockinette

Sizes
S/M for 19-21” (48-53 cm) circumference
M/L for 21-22” (53-56 cm) circumference
If in between sizes, opt for the smaller size.

Abbreviations
CC contrast color
k knit
MC main color
RS right side
sts stitches
WS wrong side