The Book of Boro

Techniques and Patterns Inspired by Traditional Japanese Textiles

By: Susan Briscoe

Paperback

Published: 10 November 2020

ISBN: 9781446308325

Boro is the ultimate slow stitching technique.

This collection explores the history of the Japanese textile technique, Boro, and its relevance to the contemporary sewer. Learn about the history of Boro and the materials that were traditionally used such as cotton and hemp fabrics, kasuri ikat, indigo, silk mawata, raw cotton and hemp.

We also look at how Boro is being revived for a new audience using contemporary fabrics including denim, linen and shibori tie-dye, as well as sashiko and embroidery.

The techniques section includes a short stitch directory with traditional stitches (running stitch and applique) and contemporary stitches (herringbone stitch, blanket stitch, chain stitch and whipped running stitch).

Other techniques include:

• Instructions on improvisational patchwork
• Applique: raw and turned edges and reverse
• Darning
• Methods for distressing and ageing your finished boro