Hello!
Sashiko and Kogin are traditional Japanese embroidery techniques that have been loved for many years.
Today, they are popular not only for making Hanafukin cloths and small projects, but also for creating modern designs with colourful threads and beads.

At Chuko Online, we offer a wide range of Sashiko and Kogin supplies, including needles, threads, fabric, and kits.
In this article, we’ll introduce our recommended products by category!

Getting Started: The Origins of Sashiko

Sashiko is a traditional Japanese embroidery technique that has been passed down for generations. It is made by stitching white thread onto indigo-dyed fabric in simple lines.

This simple yet beautiful technique was born from practical wisdom in the daily lives of ordinary people.

The origins of Sashiko date back to the early 16th century, about 500 years ago.

Examples of Sashiko can be found throughout Japan, so its exact place of origin is not known. However, Sashiko from the Tohoku region is especially well known.

It is said to have started as a way to make clothes warmer and stronger so they could withstand the harsh cold.

Sashiko & Kogin Needles

If you want to start Sashiko or Kogin stitching, one of the first things you’ll need is a special needle.

Sashiko and Kogin threads are thicker than regular sewing thread, so we recommend choosing needles that are easy to thread and pass smoothly through the fabric.

Choose the right needle for the project you want to make, such as Hanafukin cloths, Hitomezashi designs, or small Kogin projects.

3 Popular Needles: What I Learned from Using Them

  • COT4345 COSMO / Sashiko Needles – hidamari –

Sashiko Needles -hidamari- are available in four different lengths. You can choose the right length for your pattern, which is very handy!
The backing that holds the needles is made of fabric, and the back has an adhesive surface. This makes it useful for DIY projects such as making your own portable needle set.
The included needle threader is also a nice little bonus!

  • DRM8861 Daruma / Sashiko Needles with Needle Threader

The set includes four Sashiko needles in different thicknesses and lengths, so you can choose the right one for the fabric thickness and thread you are using. It’s very convenient!
They are easy to use with both thin and thick threads, and a needle threader is also included. They are a great choice for anyone who wants to start Sashiko.

  • OSH1 Olympus / Sashiko Needles

Olympus needles have sharp, carefully polished tips, making it easy to move the needle smoothly through the fabric without splitting the threads.
The large needle eyes and gold-plated finish also make threading easy.
From beginners to experienced stitchers, you can enjoy beautiful, even stitches without the frustration!

Sashiko & Kogin Threads

Sashiko and Kogin threads can completely change the look and feel of your project.

Along with classic colours, there are bright colours and even threads with metallic accents. The thread you choose can make a big difference in the finished look.

Whether you want a traditional feel or a more modern style, this is a category you’ll want to check out.

3 Popular Threads: What I Learned from Using Them

  • OS-20M Olympus / Sashiko Thread [Solid Color] 20 m

This thread has the substantial thickness you would expect from Sashiko thread.

Compared with the other two, it is slightly thicker and softer, with a more subtle sheen. It is recommended for pattern stitching with a relaxed, flowing feel.

However, because it is soft, the thread may split or become fuzzy when used for stitching that requires the needle to pass through the same area many times, such as Hitomezashi. Please keep this in mind.

  • DRM2400 Daruma / Fine Sashiko Thread, Card-Wound, 40 m

This easy-to-stitch Sashiko thread has beautiful, vibrant colours and a subtle sheen.

Compared with threads from other manufacturers, it has a tighter twist, making it easy to stitch with.

Because the thread is fine, using the “Fine” type for small, detailed patterns can help create a neat finish.

  • CS122301 COSMO / Sashiko Thread [Solid Color] – hidamari –

This thread feels slightly finer than many other Sashiko threads.

It has a tight twist, so the thread stays together while you stitch, allowing the needle to move smoothly through the fabric.

One of the fun things about the hidamari series is its unique range of colours.

Along with classic solid colours, you can enjoy different looks, such as “Moku,” where colours are softly blended together, and “Ten Kasuri,” where small touches of colour appear on a white base. These offer a different look from typical variegated threads.

This is a series you’ll want to reach for when you want to add a little extra character to your project.

Sashiko Fabric, Hanafukin Cloths & Kogin Fabric

If you want to start Sashiko easily, pre-printed Hanafukin cloths and Sashiko fabric are a great choice.

Simply stitch along the printed lines to complete the pattern, making them popular with beginners.

If you want to make projects in your own size, we also offer bleached cotton fabric in sizes that are easy to use for cloths and handkerchiefs, as well as colourful, unevenly dyed Sashiko fabric that lets you enjoy different colour combinations.

・SFC1-B / SFC1-O Cut Bleached Cotton Fabric (33 × 71 cm)
This 100% cotton bleached fabric is available in two different fabric densities. When folded in half and sewn together, it is just the right size for making a dishcloths.

SFC1-B（文/BUN）
The fabric has a looser weave, making it easy to stitch and suitable for beginners. Olympus OS-20M or Daruma DRM2410 (medium-weight) threads are recommended.

SFC1-O（岡/OKA）
The fabric has a tighter weave and higher density, making it ideal for stitching delicate patterns. Finer threads, such as Daruma DRM2400 (Fine) and COSMO CS122301, are recommended.

・KSC7190 Unevenly Dyed Sashiko Fabric (50 × 55 cm)

This soft, pleasant fabric has a hand-spun look, with just the right amount of firmness and softness.

With a wide range of colours available, it can be used for a variety of everyday items, such as placemats and coasters.

For Kogin stitching, choosing Kogin fabric with an easy-to-count weave makes it easier to create your projects!

・PHC-019 Congress Cut Fabric for Kogin Stitching (30 × 42 cm)

This fabric comes in bright yet somewhat muted colours.

Its weave is easy to count, making it suitable for Kogin stitching.

Staff Pick:
COSMO – hidamari –

“hidamari” is known for its soft colours and designs that blend naturally into everyday life. The brand offers Sashiko threads, cloths, templates, and more—perfect for creating projects with a natural look and feel.

They are also great for making everyday items such as coasters and cloths.

Sashiko is a traditional needlework technique that was originally developed to make fabric stronger. COSMO launched “hidamari,”
a brand inspired by the Sashiko tradition, with a bright, fun, and warm feeling like sunshine.

A New Trend to Try:
Beaded Sashiko

“Beaded Sashiko” combines Sashiko stitching with beads.

Unlike traditional Sashiko, which uses only thread, adding beads gives your projects a sparkling shine and a three-dimensional look, creating a more decorative finish.

Starter sets, special beads, needles, and kits are also available, making Beaded Sashiko a great choice for beginners.

▲Click the image to visit our Beaded Sashiko feature page!

In Closing

Sashiko and Kogin are easy crafts to start with—just gather your needles, thread, and fabric.

You can enjoy traditional patterns, or create your own unique projects with colourful threads and beads.

Chuko Online offers a wide selection of materials and kits for Sashiko and Kogin.

Be sure to check out our product pages!

▼Click here to see our Sashiko & Kogin products.



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