A Sashiko Stitched Zokin: Recycled Cotton and Secret Stitches

early to mid twentieth century
8" x 12 3/4", 20.25 cm x 32.5 cm

A zokin is a traditional Japanese dustrag which is hand stitched using repurporsed cloth.  Zokin were often made in groups, so very often you will find batches of similar types coming from one home.

This zokin is stitched from several layers of indigo dyed cotton which seems to have been recycled from an old, cotton kimono or a kimono lining.  The sashiko stitching is done in thick, white thread and forms a pattern of tiny crosses. Looking closely at the blue cloth you will see black stitches that are barely discernible: clearly the cloth used to create the zokin was stitched and repaired before being transformed into this dust cloth.

This is a very handsome old, traditional dust rag which certainly can be used in the home as an accessory.