Boro refers to “tattered” or “scrappy” clothing in Japanese. In the cold rural areas of Northern Japan, old clothing was often repeatedly mended and patched by stitching layers of fabric scraps together for warmth and strength. This style of mended textiles came to be called boro.

Workshop participants will be introduced to the historical background and design concepts of boro, usage of a sashiko needle, introduction to a variety of stitching techniques, and hands-on instruction to arrange and stitch a boro-style fabric piece.

Boro Kit Contents:

•  2 sashiko needles

• Skein of sashiko thread

•  Sashiko thimble

•  10x12’’ natural cotton backing fabric

•  Variety of Japanese/vintage fabric scraps

•  Printed handouts on boro designs and information

This three hour workshop is lead by textile artist Penny Cheuk-Low. The cost is $150 per person and includes all materials plus light snacks and beverages. Limit 10 people. To register, click here.

To learn more about Penny and her artistic practice, please visit her website or Instagram.