A Square Sashiko Zokin: Traditional Dustrag

mid twentieth century
13" x 13", 33 cm x 33 cm

A  zokin  is a traditional Japanese dust cloth or cleaning rag; it is usually made from old pieces of cloth and it is usually layered and stitched for durability.   

Along with diapers, zokin are among the traditional household textiles that represent the end of the line where the repurposing or recycling of cloth is concerned.

This example shows a wonderfully sashiko stitched zokin which is about three layers thick and is stitched together from indigo dyed striped cotton cloth. The evenly spaced, vertical lines of sashiko stitching are wonderful as well as the lone patch which graces one side.

Charming.