Sashiko was originally designed as a mending technique to quilt together several layers of fabric for warmth and durabillity or for stregthening a single layer of fabrics. Like quilting in America, sashiko had humble beginings. The Japanese have been doing sashiko for practicle sewing purposes since ancient times. Like quilting, it was an activity that brought toghether a group of people with a common shared task and provided a place to gather, share ideas, talk, eat and of course, sew. In Japan's country houses, this traditional gathering location was the heart, which was the family's sources of light and heat, and the center of family life and a symbol of hospitality. It was in this environment of warmth and light that clothes were mended and stitched, so much the same environment where quilting as we know it had its own beginnings.

As I started to use sashiko to quilt and embellish my own garments, I realized the dramatic effect sashiko had for producing unique and personal clothing. The idea of creating my very own textures and designs and having total control over color was addictive. Ibegan searching for more patterns, pictures and information on this exciting yet humble craft. As my search has progressed and my passion for the technique has grown, I have remained faithful to the humble beginnings of sashiko by creating yet elegant garments.