Slow Stiched Patch
Blue jeans have been an important part of America’s culture since Levi Strauss patented them in May of 1873. Whether stone washed, button fly, boot leg, or just worn to that perfect softness, you may own a favorite pair of jeans. But, what to do if they get a rip or hole in them? If it isn’t meant to be a fashion statement, those jeans can be lovingly repaired with a technique from the Japanese tradition of mending called sashiko.
This style of mending is not meant to hide the rips and tears, but to creatively adorn the area with handstitched patterns. This tradition has become popular in today’s search for mindfulness and a release from stressful situations.
Step 1: Begin the Grid
Select a color and thread your needle. Imagine a grid over your jean swatch beginning to create a running stitch to create a set of rows. A running stitch is simply taking the needle up and down through the material creating a dash line of stitches on the surface.
Step 2: Add Another layer
Using the same running stitch add a second layer of design. You can make lines in the opposite direction creating a crisscross pattern or you could create more lines in between the lines you have already created and use smaller or larger stitches. The idea is to build the pattern in a grid like formation. Be creative, experiment, and have fun.
Step 3: Finishing
Make sure to end all of your stitching with a knot on the back of the fabric to ensure your work stays in place. Trim any threads that are hanging down from the back.
Things to Think About
1. Did you notice any changes in your thoughts or feelings as you worked? Maybe, you were able to forget about your “to do” list for the moment, or let an irritating thought go for just a moment.
2. Think about the idea of mending your clothes in this way. Would you be proud to wear a decorated patch that stands out or would you prefer to hide the imperfections in your outfit? How might wearing a hand-stitched colorful patch change how you value your clothing?
3. If you thought about your life as a piece of clothing with the rips and tears representing different challenges you have faced, would you want to display them using this type of mending or try to mend them, so they didn’t show?