Sashiko (pronounced shash-ko) means 'stab stitch' & refers to the small running stitch that is worked to build up distinctive decorative patterns of which there are hundreds The book begins by exploring the origins of the technique to strengthen clothes & to make them warmer Getting Started describes everything you need to begin stitching including sleecting suitable fabrics & threads marking out patterns on the fabric as well as the stitching technique itself Ten project chapters show how easy it is to use sashiko patterns to make beautiful items for the home The sashiko patterns are described in step-by-step detail in the pattern library showing you exactly how to achieve each individual pattern with ease Finally a gallery of work by contemporary Japanese extile artists provides extra inspiration