I have just completed a sashiko table cloth for my balcony table… and I absolutely love the result.
One of my favourite sashiko motifs is Shippo-tsunagi, or Seven Treasures. I’ve used it in a number of my designs in a variety of different ways.
Shippo-tsunagi (Seven Treasures) Sashiko design.
My table cloth uses a variation on the above design. I have dispersed the Seven Treasures sashiko motif across the fabric to create a specific geometric effect.
I chose to stitch my design onto indigo fabric using an off-white sashiko thread to get the best contrast.
You could experiment using a different colour of sashiko thread, a selection of different colours, or a variegated sashiko thread. It’s all down to how you feel creatively. (I personally love the way natural dyed colour threads look against indigo fabric.)
Completed stitching the design on the fabric.
With the sashiko stitching completed, I decided to do some applique to attractively highlight the design.
I included some applique to attractively highlight the design.
To finish off, I needed some backing fabric. I chose a Japanese cotton print fabric with an opposing colour pallette and modern patchwork design. (Part of the patchwork design on the backing fabric includes the Seven Treasures motif, which I think is a nice touch.)
This tablecloth is available as a kit. If you would like to find out more, click here: Sashiko Crossings – Sashiko Tablecloth Kit
I had a lot of fun with this project, and I hope this illustrates how enjoyable and rewarding a sashiko project can be.
– Sue
Are you new to sashiko? Learn more about it here:
11 Comments
What a lovely table cloth such a simple design you have used you have really inspired me.
Thank you Pat – It was the simplicity of this design that enjoyed – The applique was an after thought and I think it really adds to the design.
A beautiful compliment to the finished project using the contrast backing so elegant Sue . You inspire the love of this wonderful art and traditional meaning of the culture of japan I am encouraged to indulge in another project from your provocation thank you Sharon
Hello Sharon, Thank you for your kind words – I enjoy making simple things – this process responds beautifully to simplicity – please try another project – Cheers Sue
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful piece of work. I am new to this art form and feel inspired to have a go at this design, now where is my old compass?
This is beautiful. I’m new to this. Did you do the sashiko stitching through all the layers eg top, wadding, and backing or how – what point did you attach the backing and how.? Just trying to understand the process. Thanks for your help.
Hello Lynelle, Thank you for your comment on this table throw – I didn’t stitch through the three layers – I stitched my topper first (as I would for the top of a quilt) then put it together with a backing only – being a table throw it did not need any wadding – I just bagged the top with a gorgeous fabric for the backing – its very simple. Enjoy and thank you. Sue
I love this Suzanne,
I have purchased a panel and am currently working on the stitching. I am interested in purchasing some suitable fabric which compliments the applique on the top and the same fabric for the backing. Could you please suggest a suitable fabric (the same or similar) to the fabric you have used. And I would like to purchase it if possible on-line or direct.
Thank you.
Warmest regards,
Jenny
Hello Jenny, I hope you are enjoying the sashiko whilst working the Table Cloth – I do have the exact fabric used in my sample as displayed online. If you wish to send me an email to – sue@indigoniche.com I will converse with you and organise to have the fabric sent to you. This particular fabric does give you lots of options as it has multiple designs for use. Hope this helps you. Happy Sewing Jenny. Keep Safe. Kind Regards Sue
Hello Sue, Firstly i would like to say that your tablecloth is beautiful. I enjoy doing Sashiko. Find it relaxing. Is there a pattern available for the tablecloth or is it your design.?
I just find it hard to decide whether to do designs in the White or Ecru or colours. Any clues????
Happy Sewing.
Hello Jean, Thank you for your comments regarding my tablecloth design. Unfortunately there is no pattern. I only do this as a pre-printed design onto fabric which is very easy to just pick up and get started. It is available in a range of colours to suit all decors though. Deciding to do it in a white or ecru is just a personal choice. Traditionally white is used on Indigo, but I more often than not use the Ecru. I find it more pleasing on the eye unless if prefer a real statement. I do like to incorporate some colour from time to time as I think this also allows you to add some of your personality into your work. I hope this works for you. Stay safe in these challenging times and Happy Sewing. Sue