Intro to Boro and Sashiko - Sewing/Mending Workshop

Many cultures have their own unique way of repairing or decorating textiles, Boro Mending and Sashiko Embroidery are two such techniques originating from Japan. These techniques both use a running stitch to repair and breathe new life into clothing and textiles in a simple, decorative way, whilst the repetitive movement is often used in mindfulness practices.

Sashiko/Boro repairs are born from the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, which embraces authenticity and imperfections, highlights rather than hides scars and celebrates these imperfections as part of an object’s history. It is also closely related to the Japanese concept of Mottainai, which expresses a feeling of deep regret when something is wasted.

You will be shown how to use Sashiko and Boro stitching on a variety of denim - as patches to fix holes in garments and/or to create beautiful traditional embroidery designs on a range of clothing (e.g. from jeans & jackets to shirts and skirts!) You will have a wide range of stencils to choose from to outline your Sashiko design on your garment and our specialist tutor will give you design suggestions on how to layer up patches to achieve an authentic Japanese Boro effect.

This is a hand sewing class, so there’s no need to be a whizz on a sewing machine! You will be able to learn the techniques and leave feeling inspired to continue fixing and rejuvenating your favourite pieces at home.

All materials will be provided, you just need to bring a denim garment (or two) which you’d like to repair or refresh. Fabrics will also be provided if you just want to sample the techniques first.

Dianne doesn’t just create - she rejuvenates! With experience in the Fashion, Arts and Education sectors, both at home and abroad, Dianne firmly believes that crafting a sustainable future for fashion involves transforming our communities creatively, one repair at a time!

Since moving to Edinburgh in 2022, she has been freelancing as a sustainable textiles tutor with organisations such as Edinburgh Remakery in Leith, The National Museum of Scotland and Edinburgh International Book Festival.

It brings her immense joy to inspire individuals to pick up a needle and thread - often for the very first time - to unlock their innate creativity & skill while revitalising a cherished item, and in the process, develop a deeper connection to shared values within our communities.

ACCESIBILITY OF VENUE- please note: the workshop space is accessed via one flight of stairs. We’re really sorry this may limit access at present — we’re actively hoping to secure funding for a lift in the future to make the space more accessible.

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