Kogin embroidery is a type of Sashiko, originating in Aomori prefecture and is a type of counted thread work. It is stitched on an even weave fabric from side to side typically using an uneven number of threads (one, three or five in length) to make up geometric, symmetrical patterns, usually in squares in the form of diamond shapes. The name “kogin” derives from “koginu” a word in Tsugaru dialect for work jacket, which was often decorated with this technique to strengthen the fabric.

There are around 45 patterns known as “Modoko”, which form the main set from which traditional Kogin is stitched. However, there are many more designs available and, once you understand the construction of the designs, you will be able to invent and stitch your own using either a simple sheet of gridded graph paper or, even easier, using a spreadsheet package such as Microsoft Excel or Numbers.

In this online workshop, led by Rob Jones, the participants will learn the following:

• How to form the three basic length stitches and count threads
• Where to start and how to neatly tidy your starting and ending threads on the back of your piece How to start the next row without
• pulling in your stitches
  
• How to sew a border pattern
• How to sew one of a selection of Modoko Kogin patterns using a template provided
  
• How to start creating your own designs
  
• Rob will also show examples of his work to illustrate how the technique can be applied to modern designs.

Participants will need the following materials and tools for the workshop:

• A piece of evenweave fabric
  
• Kogin needle (you can use a blunt darner as long as it isn’t too thick, but it must be a blunt needle)
  
• Kogin thread (you can use embroidery or Sashiko thread instead if you have them)
  
• Kogin kit can be purchased from Romor Designs and some materials and tools from Susan Briscoe Design.

London-based Romor Designs was formed in the autumn of 2015 by Rob Jones, a Shibori textiles designer and natural dyer. Having discovered Shibori, the ancient Japanese art of resist dyeing, at West Dean college, Rob went on to study in Japan under indigo guru, Bryan Whitehead. In 2018, Rob returned to Japan to expand his Japanese textiles skills, visiting Ise, the home of Katagami stencilling and buying supplies to set up his own teaching practice back in the UK.

If you have any questions, please call the Japan Society office on 020 3075 1996 or email us at: events@japansociety.org.uk.

Booking Details
£25 per person
Booking essential - Priority for Japan Society Members and their guests

Please note that spaces are limited to 6 participants in order to allow one-to-one instruction and so early booking is recommended.