Masterclass: Sashiko met Selina Ben

*This class will be in English* Date: Sunday 27th August 2023 Time: 10:00 – 16:00 Location: Wereldmuseum Rotterdam Sashiko means 'little stab'.  Although born out of necessity to improve the strength and thermal quality of textiles in the rural north of Japan, Sashiko creates stunning visual effect by combining intricate designs with country style, with only running stitch. Stitched by hand with care and wishes for protection and prosperity, Sashiko stitching reveals the personality of its maker. Developed during the Edo period (1603 – 1867), Sashiko is rooted in the long tradition of reusing textiles in Japan, for both economic and spiritual reasons. A stitcher shall practice Sashiko with respect and appreciation to the Japanese craft culture. In addition to maximize the longevity and utility of textiles, Sashiko stitching is also valued for its decorative and meditative properties. In this one-day class, you will learn the Sashiko history, tools, materials, design patterns and stitching techniques. Various possibilities of integrating Sashiko with your own creative projects will be discussed as well. You will practice drawing, stitching, and customizing two types of Sashiko patterns: moyozashi (pattern sashiko) asanoha (hemp leaf), and hitomezashi (one stitch sashiko) kakinohanazashi (persimmon flower stitch). At the end of the class, you will complete a Sashiko sampler for each pattern to use on your projects. The class is beginner friendly, so you don’t need any hand stitching or embroidery experience to join. A package with all the materials and tools needed will be provided at the class. Selina Ben is a textile artist and mender based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. With a professional background in textile product development, her passion for textiles has existed for as long as she can remember. Selina is inspired by historical textiles around the world. Her curiosity about why the textiles were significant to a place, what materials were used and how they were made stimulates her creativity. With her practice, she hopes to preserve disappearing techniques, honor unknown makers and their cultural heritage. Selina’s practice can be found at Instagram @selinaam05. Photo 1: Geen Woorden maar Draden collection piece: pouch WM-47330, hood WM-47329 / photo 2 & 3: Selina Ben