Continue Sashiko Short Course (Term 2 2026)

What's is all about?

This Continue Sashiko four-week short course is designed for anyone who would like to build confidence and deepen their skills in Japanese-style hand stitching in a relaxed, supportive environment. Led by Andrea Taylor, who has over 20 years’ experience in Sashiko and Boro techniques, the course offers an ongoing exploration of slow stitching practices across four four-hour sessions.

Participants will be guided through the fundamentals of fabric pattern drafting, traditional pattern transferring, and stitching techniques, with no preprinted panels used. There is a strong focus on understanding materials and how to work creatively with them, allowing students to complete small projects of their own choosing. Boro-style stitching will also be incorporated, offering opportunities to layer, mend, and experiment with texture and design.

The course is suitable for all levels, including beginners, with Andrea providing individual guidance as skills develop over the four weeks. A beginner’s kit will be supplied in the first session and used throughout the course, with small additional materials costs in later weeks depending on the project selected. This is an ideal opportunity to slow down, stitch thoughtfully, and continue developing a personal Sashiko practice.

Extra materials will be available for purchase on the day for anyone wishing to make more at home.

Please note a stand-alone Sashiko Workshop is also on offer on Monday 4th May. Please visit the Explore Sashiko webpage for more information.

Who will be leading the session?

The session will be led by Andrea Taylor, an experienced textile artist and teacher with around 20 years of practice in Japanese-style Sashiko and Boro, and more than 40 years as a dressmaker. Andrea also works with traditional organic indigo dyeing and is known for teaching the traditional method of transferring sashiko patterns using Chaco paper, allowing for greater creative freedom. Her designs draw inspiration from copyright-free Japanese source books and her visit to the Tokyo Quilt Show in 2015, as well as her own screen printing and lino-cut work. With a deep passion for slow stitching, Andrea brings a thoughtful, creative approach to sharing sashiko as a timeless and expressive technique.

Short Course Information

This four week short course will run on Monday 18th May, Monday 1st June, Monday 15th June and Monday 29th June between 11am - 3pm.

The workshop will take place in the Rodney Snell Function Room of the Woodend Neighbourhood House - entry via the red front door.

The cost for the four week short course is $340 per person, with all materials provided.

Please note the short course requires a minimum of 4 paid participants to go ahead. If this minimum number is not reached, a full refund will be provided. The short course will have a maximum of 12 participants.