A Densely Sashiko Stitched Sleeveless Garment: Charming Tenugui Lining

mid twentieth century
22" x 13", 56 cm x 33 cm

This sleeveless, vest-like garment is hand stitched from striped cotton cloth and shows all-over, very dense sashiko stitching which is done in white cotton thread.

The cloth is type that was produced and was popular in the 1930s, 40s and 50s and more than likely it was taken from another garment and was transformed into this one.

Aside from the masterful and intense sashiko stitching that covers this garment, the lining is wonderful as it is made of recycled tenugui which are a kind of traditional, unfinished, cotton hand towel which were often decorated with charming images.

The way in which the tenugui pieces have been placed and combined seems somewhat random and with this we see some striking visual delight.

This small garment is loaded with charm and is certainly a piece that will give much pleasure over time.

Recommended.