Hana-fukin printed sashiko fabric 33 x 33 cm, rokkakukamon, indigo blue

Product description

Fabric panel with wash-out template for traditional Japanese sashiko stitching in the classic hana-fukin format (33 × 33 cm). The pattern is printed on one half of the panel, while the other half forms the back of the completed work.

When finished, you will have a kitchen cloth that is neat on both sides. The printed template washes out completely after rinsing.

This is an ideal small project for beginners or anyone wishing to refine their technique.

Made in Japan

This fabric is produced by Olympus, the renowned Japanese manufacturer of materials and tools for sashiko needlework. With material from a trusted Japanese supplier, you can experience sashiko just as it is traditionally practiced in Japan.

Rokkakukamon pattern

The pre-printed Rokkakukamon pattern is a traditional Japanese motif:

• A stylized six-petalled flower arranged in a hexagonal composition
• Resembles the better-known asanoha hemp-leaf motif
• Symbolizes longevity, good fortune and protection from evil

What else will you need?

This product is not a kit – it includes the pre-printed fabric panel only. To complete the project, you will need:

• Sashiko thread
• Sashiko needle

While sashiko can be done with ordinary embroidery floss, authentic sashiko thread is thicker and less twisted, yielding a distinctive textured stitch. If you also use the longer sashiko needle, stitching is easier and the result cleaner.

What is sashiko?

You can read more about sashiko on our blog. In short, it is a traditional Japanese technique originally intended simply for reinforcing and mending clothing. Today it has evolved into a system of decorative stitching with an array of minimalist geometric patterns.

Stitches are worked in straight lines across the fabric. As each row of stitches is laid, the full pattern gradually emerges. Every line plays a role in the final composition.

Its repetition and rhythm give the practice of sashiko an almost meditative quality. Makers take joy not only in the finished result but in the calming process itself.

Sashiko basics:

• Special cotton sashiko thread
• Long, thin, sturdy sashiko needles
• Traditionally indigo or ecru base fabric
• White thread on indigo fabric for the most traditional look

Care instructions

• Rinse in lukewarm water after finishing – the printed lines will wash out completely
• Use mild detergent without bleach
• Iron from the reverse side

Why choose Hana-fukin fabric from us?

Our decision to stock Olympus cotton was the result of thoughtful deliberation. We carefully select our suppliers, working directly with them whenever possible. We visit them on site whenever we can and see their methods of manufacturing up close.

In the case of Olympus:

• We visited their manufacturing operations
• We verified production quality and fair working conditions
• We work directly with them, no middlemen

For us, quality is about more than just the fabric – it’s also its origin and the people behind it. That way we can stand firmly behind our selection.