ThreadArt · Sashiko Embroidery
The art of the running stitch
Sashiko is the centuries-old Japanese practice of reinforcing and repairing cloth with rows of simple running stitches. Our authentic 20/6 thread is made in Japan from 100% cotton in 32 matte colors, with pre-printed wash-away kits to learn on. Shipped fast from our Texas warehouse.
Made in Japan · 40 meters per card
Made in Japan
100% natural cotton, size 20/6
1–2 days
to leave our Texas warehouse
32 colors
soft, matte, and non-divisible
$50+
orders ship free
What is sashiko?
Mend it, don't toss it
Sashiko (literally "little stabs") began in rural Japan in the Edo period, when fabric was scarce and every scrap was precious. Farming and fishing families layered worn cloth and stitched it together with rows of running stitches, adding strength and warmth so a garment could serve another generation. Over time those practical stitches grew into the geometric patterns sashiko is known for today.
That same spirit drives today's visible mending movement. Instead of hiding a repair, you make it the feature: a bright patch on a torn knee, a grid of stitches across a thinning elbow, a favorite tote given a second life. It's slow, meditative, and one of the simplest ways to keep clothing out of the landfill.
Boro
Layering scraps of fabric and stitching them together into a patchwork that gets stronger with every repair.
Hitomezashi
"One-stitch" sashiko worked on a grid, where crossing rows build up crosses, diamonds, and stars.
Moyōzashi
Pattern sashiko: long, curving lines of stitches that form waves, hemp leaves, and interlocking circles.
Why ThreadArt
Quality first, since day one
Whether you're mending a favorite pair of jeans, reinforcing a worn work jacket, or stitching a geometric sampler from scratch, we stock the thread and kits to see it through.
Twisted to resist fraying
Medium 20/6 weight pulls smoothly through layers of denim and linen, holds the classic "rice grain" stitch, and stands up to years of washing on mended clothes.
Prices that make sense
We sell direct from our warehouse, so building a full palette of sashiko colors doesn't cost a fortune.
Real help from real crafters
Free project tutorials, color charts, and friendly support at customerservice@threadart.com when you need help.
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Everything for your next project
New to sashiko?
Start with the pre-printed sunhat kit to learn the running stitch, then take it to the mending pile. A card of thread, a sharp needle, and a pair of worn jeans is all your first visible mend needs.
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From our Texas warehouse to your needle
Join the crafters who trust ThreadArt for every stitch. Orders over $50 ship free.
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