Slow Stitched Sashiko-Style Pouch

Use a patchwork of upcycled fabrics to create a Sashiko style slow-stitched purse.

This wonderful mindful practice is so easy to pick up and can be used to repair clothing and make a wide range of textile pieces. The word sashiko translates as ‘little stabs’, referring to the simple running stitch and repeating, interlocking patterns used.

Tutor Bonita will demonstrate various sashiko designs and have templates for you to try. You’ll create your pouch with a layer of fabric and a layer of wadding and the top will be patched together with various fabric pieces that will be sewn in place invisibly with back stitch, and then over sewn with embroidery threads. You’ll then sew up your pouch with blanket stitch and finally add a button and loop. Don’t worry of that all sounds a lot – Bonita will guide you through each stage, with lots of individual support if you need it.

Using this technique also gives you the skills to help reduce waste and save garments from landfill by mending and prolonging their life by reusing fabric scraps to create something new.

This workshop is ideal for anyone who enjoys crafts, or those wanting to learn a new skill, anyone looking to be creative to enhance their wellbeing and/or those wanting to spend time with like-minded crafters!

All materials are provided.

This half day workshop will start at 10.30am and finish at 2.30pm, with a short break for lunch. Our café will be open or you are welcome to bring your own refreshments.

Participants must be aged 14+. Under 18s must be accompanied by a paying adult at all times.

Please ensure that you agree to our updated Terms & Conditions before booking as courses/workshops are non-refundable in some circumstances.

We aim to make all our sessions as accessible as possible and carers/PAs are very welcome – just remember to book their free place when you book your session. If you'd like to talk to us in advance of booking or attending your sessions to discuss your access needs, our Box Office team is here to help! Email arts-centre@le.ac.uk, pop in or call 0116 252 2455, open 7 days a week.

We have four blue badge parking spaces outside Attenborough Arts Centre, plus double yellow line roadside parking very close to the building for blue badge holders for up to three hours if our parking spaces are occupied.

Free parking for all customers is available after 5pm on weekdays and all day at weekends in the University of Leicester car park next door to Attenborough Arts Centre on Lancaster Road.

The closest public car park for parking at all other times is Victoria Park, 5-10 minutes walk from us.