I made a Free-motion embroidered applique based on the Great Wave of Kanagawa.
I then went on to add it to a denim jacket and did some other treatments. The jacket was more experimental than anything else and I was never really happy with the outcome.
Experiments with Distressing Fabric
I had become inspired by some examples of distressed bandanas used in Boro Sashiko jackets.
I searched the web and the best technique seemed to be to use a hammer. Others used files and sandpaper. I decided that I would use my needle felting machine as it would distress the fabric and attach it at the same time. This worked out quite well.
I then added sashiko stitches with my sashiko machine.
I was quite please with the effect I achieved with my needle felting machine:
Placement of applique
Some designers start on paper but when I work in upcycling discarded items of clothing, using Boro Sashiko, I like to use the garment as my canvas. I just select the pieces of fabric that I have rescued previously and pin them in place.
I then sew down the pieces, using either my sashiko machine or by hand, depending on the position or effect I am trying to achieve. For example, I was forced to stich by hand around the pockets, to avoid sealing them shut.
Applying Sashiko Designs
There are many ways to outline a sashiko design, so that you can just follow it with stitches. Because I do quite a lot of this, I have template that I use, in conjunction with a white pen; because I mainly use dark fabrics. I hope you can tell how this is achieved in the photos below.
Template and white pen
The Finished Product
I just use combinations of the above to achieve my final outcome. On this jacket, I have also used quite a lot of whip stitch to attach the pieces of obi, because this frays extensively.
One of the biggest challenges with this kind of project is knowing when to stop. I think I stopped in the right place. Voilà!
