Koginsashi is one of the famous Japanese dyeing and weaving that is very familiar in modern times. The traditional patterns, which are expressed through prickly and fine needlework, are very cute, and they capture people’s hearts and never let go. In fact, it is also used for various handmade items and is gaining popularity.
Therefore, in this article, we will focus on Koginsashi, review the overview, and introduce recommended items and handmade kits.
What is Koginsashi?
Koginsashi has been handed down in the Tsugaru region of Aomori Prefecture. It is one of the original sashiko techniques in which patterns are embroidered with white thread on indigo dyed fabric.
It is said that the reason why Kogin-zashi was developed was because farmers could not wear colored kimonos, including cotton, because they were too expensive to wear. It is In addition, hemp cloth often wears out quickly, so it also had the meaning of mending and reinforcing it.
Nowadays, Koginsashi is applied not only to indigo fabrics, but also to fabrics of various colors, and the number of unique patterns is increasing.
Recommended items for Koginsashi
First, let’s take a look at the recommended items that use Koginsashi.
Asymmetric Koginsashi earrings
Asymmetrical Koginsashi earrings with different patterns. With a set of 3, you can wear it in any combination according to your mood of the day. With a diameter of 2 cm, it is large enough to cover the earlobe. You can choose to wear pierced earrings or earrings, so it doesn’t matter if you don’t have pierced holes.
| Product name | Asymmetric earrings/earrings red 3 pieces [made to order] asymmetric embroidery linen Koginsashi |
| Price (tax included) | 3,000 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/12744821/detail |
| creator name | smile days* |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/smiledays19 |
Kogin-zashi hair tie made of carefully selected walnut buttons
A hair elastic with Koginsashi arranged with an Ortega native pattern. Because it is different from the traditional pattern, it does not have a Japanese impression, and it is an item that can be worn with natural coordination. The back side is closed with metal fittings and covered with goat leather to ensure durability.
| Product name | 【popular item! ] Kogin-zashi/Hishi-zashi Hair Elastic Linen “Native Ortega Pattern ⑦” |
| Price (tax included) | 700 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/4469432/detail |
| creator name | imyum |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/creator/1289841 |
Cute pony hook with Koginsashi flowers
A pony hook made by Kogin-zashi of the original “Hanamoyo” on light blue fabric. Even with traditional techniques, just by changing the design, you can instantly create a modern and cute atmosphere. In terms of color, it seems to be active in refreshing seasonal coordination such as spring and summer. It can be said that it is an item that can be worn regardless of age.
| Product name | Kogin-zashi Pony Hook <Flower Pattern> 3.8cm |
| Price (tax included) | 1,100 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/8473756/detail |
| creator name | irotoridori |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/creator/944220 |
Clip hairpin with natural kogin embroidery
Kogin-zashi clip hairpin made with Japanese embroidery thread. One of the traditional patterns, “Ishidatami”, is arranged in an original way, giving it a natural texture. Even if you have a lot of hair, you can stop it firmly, so it is also functional and will be useful for everyday use.
| Product name | [Made-to-order free shipping] Koginsashi clip hairpin Large size stone pavement indigo |
| Price (tax included) | 1,100 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/7939378/detail |
| creator name | prickly* coloring |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/chikunuri |
A brooch with taiKoginsashi attached to the chest or bag
A brooch with traditional kogin embroidery with wool thread. I can’t get enough of the fluffy texture that was a little fuzzy. The base is made of wood, but it does not weigh much, and it is less burdensome for clothes, bags, and other items to be attached. If you don’t want a hole in the brooch pin, you can change it to a magnet for a fee.
| Product name | Koginsashi brooch “Yotsubi Blue” wooden natural 40mm/linen/yarn/gift/free shipping |
| Price (tax included) | 2,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/13524425/detail |
| creator name | Hakaraco |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/hakaraco_24 |
A very convenient stole pin with Koginsashi
A stole pin with kogin embroidery with off-white thread. Because of its natural taste, it is a useful item that is easy to match with any outfit. When you go out, you can rest assured that you always have a stole pin that helps to hold the stole around your neck on a windy day.
| Product name | Koginsashi stole pin |
| Price (tax included) | 1,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/7781726/detail |
| creator name | Camelow L |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/camelowl |
Camera strap finished by applying Koginsashi
A camera strap that uses the abacus, a traditional Kogin-zashi pattern. Because it is combined with denim, it does not have a Japanese atmosphere, and it even has the atmosphere of traditional outdoor goods. It is also durable, so you will enjoy going out with your favorite camera.
| Product name | Koginsashi total stab camera strap very popular ♡ indigo abacus [embroidery ☺︎ denim remake] ⌘ made-to-order ⌘ special project 2208 |
| Price (tax included) | 5,800 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/12246376/detail |
| creator name | CheT |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/Che-T |
A pill case with taiKoginsashi that I always carry with me
A pill case with Koginsashi on the lid of the pill case. Because it is based on a light blue fabric, it has a clean feel and is perfect for storing household medicines and accessories. You can keep it in your everyday bag, and even if someone else sees it, you won’t know what case it is, so you can protect your privacy.
| Product name | Re* Pill Case <Flower Cross Applied x Light Blue> |
| Price (tax included) | 2,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/5248079/detail |
| creator name | irotoridori |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/creator/944220 |
Natural modern Koginsashi eyeglass case
A glasses case with a tortoiseshell pattern that is auspicious with Koginsashi. It is thick enough to store not only your precious glasses, but also stationery such as pens. However, please be careful not to get it wet as it is assembled by sticking the fabric to the paper core.
| Product name | ◎Rhombuszashi・Koginsashi◎ Glasses case |
| Price (tax included) | 2,000 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/11480671/detail |
| creator name | product |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/produire |
Smartphone case daringly embroidered with embroidery thread
A smartphone case with a traditional Matsukasa pattern made with Koginsashi. It will be produced according to each model of iPhone, XPERIA, and Android. You can also order details such as the color of the embroidery thread, the inner fabric, and the fasteners.
| Product name | ☆ New item ☆ iPhone, XPERIA, android notebook type order Koginsashi (Matsukasa) smartphone case |
| Price (tax included) | 4,800 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/6072766/detail |
| creator name | h_a_sewing |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/creator/211703 |
Mini mat made with Koginsashi
A cute mini mat made with Koginsashi. Not only can it be used as a coaster for placing glasses, but it can also be used in a variety of situations, such as placing it under a small vase. It’s a good idea to have multiple collections, not just one, but two or three, depending on the room coordination and usage scene.
| Product name | Koginsashi mini mat (coaster) ・light gray on white background / pattern 3 |
| Price (tax included) | 950 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/7774804/detail |
| creator name | gradually |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/creator/2456475 |
Natural and cute Koginsashi coaster
A coaster that mainly expresses the pattern representing a cow called “Beko” among Koginsashi. Although it is not thick, it has an interlining inside, so it does not feel sticky and has a firm and stable feel. Because it is a set of 2, it can be used in pairs, so it is also recommended as a gift.
| Product name | ◎ Koginsashi ◎ Set of 2 coasters |
| Price (tax included) | 1,200 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/11592508/detail |
| creator name | product |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/produire |
Kogin-zashi luncheon mat accented with apples
A luncheon mat with three cute apples in the corners of a calm dark blue base fabric. Although it has a simple design, it is accented with apples, making it an item that will make your meal time fun and colorful. It’s a good idea to have the same amount as the number of people in your family.
| Product name | Apple luncheon mat (navy blue) |
| Price (tax included) | 3,740 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tsumugiya.jp/?pid=164812436 |
| Store name | spinning house |
| Store homepage URL | https://tsumugiya.jp |
Koginsashi pot mat with a natural texture
A pot mat with a pattern of snowflakes resembling flowers on a gray-based fabric with Koginsashi. The inside is made of quilted fabric, so it is fluffy and gently holds the pot. It is also worth noting that the pattern is placed on the edge so that you can always enjoy the pattern.
| Product name | [Sekka sekka] Koginsashi Pot Mat Gray |
| Price (tax included) | 2,800 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/10676403/detail |
| creator name | studio crane |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/creator/3840575 |
Kogin-zashi pocket bags made from remnants
An eco-friendly Kogin-zashi bag made from scraps and leftover threads. It is decorated with a scale pattern, which is said to bring good luck, and is an item that will delight loved ones as a New Year’s gift. The person who received it will not throw it away and will keep it with their memories, or reuse it as a lucky charm bag.
| Product name | Small bag scale |
| Price (tax included) | 1,650 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tsugaru-kogin.square.site/product/-/23?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=false |
| Store name | Hirosaki Kogin Institute Co., Ltd. |
| Store homepage URL | https://tsugaru-kogin.jp |
A stylish Koginsashi book cover that makes reading fun
A Scandinavian style book cover with Koginsashi on a refreshing and bright mint blue fabric. It is a modern and cute item that you will not realize that it is a traditional Japanese craft. Just by attaching it to your favorite book, there is no doubt that reading time will be even more enjoyable. It seems to be appreciated as a present.
| Product name | Koginsashi Book Cover Hirosaki Kogin Institute |
| Price (tax included) | 5,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://shouten.turns.jp/items/29422473 |
| Store name | TURNS store |
| Store homepage URL | https://shouten.turns.jp |
Kogin-zashi stamp case perfect for celebrations
A stamp case with Koginsashi full of warmth that conveys that it was carefully made by hand. Because it is based on gray color, you can’t separate likes and dislikes regardless of gender. The antique gold base also has a calm atmosphere. It is an item that will be appreciated as a gift, and you can feel Koginsashi close to you.
| Product name | Koginsashi [Made-to-order/Free shipping] Seal case 104 (Geometric C/Ground: Gray/Thread: Unbleached) |
| Price (tax included) | 1,980 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/9247362/detail |
| creator name | Kogin Forest |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/kogin |
Easy-to-use Kogin-zashi bi-fold business card holder
A bi-fold business card holder filled with the tradition of Koginsashi. The pattern of the saddle stitched with white thread shines on the deep indigo ground. The inside is divided into two pockets, and the usability is perfect. It is an item that will be greatly appreciated as a gift for those who love the good old traditions of Japan.
| Product name | Bifold business card case |
| Price (tax included) | 2,420 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tsugaru-kogin.square.site/product/-/3?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=false |
| Store name | Hirosaki Kogin Institute |
| Store homepage URL | https://tsugaru-kogin.jp |
Kogin-zashi coin purse with a unique shape
A coin purse made with Koginsashi. With a very minimal size of about 8.5cm x 6cm, it is a cute item that comes in handy when you go to a convenience store for a while. There is also a sense of luxury, and the quality is irresistible, which makes it hard to believe that it is handmade. The design can be left up to you, or you can specify it as a custom design.
| Product name | Koginsashi coin purse (one-of-a-kind item) |
| Price (tax included) | 3,600 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/7010478/detail |
| creator name | Benimatsuya (Kogin, Japanese paper) |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/benimatsu |
Kogin-zashi smartphone pochette combined with denim
A smart phone pochette made by remaking denim and stitching it together with Kogin-zashi fabric. Although it is based on Japanese traditional crafts, it is an item that has a foreign atmosphere. It’s convenient because it has a pocket that can be used not only for smartphones, but also for small wallets and other small items.
| Product name | [Special Feature] Koginsashi Denim Remake Smartphone Pochette ☺︎ Aisei [Sashiko] Smartphone Shoulder 2022 ☺︎ Special Project 2208 |
| Price (tax included) | 5,300 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/14270176/detail |
| creator name | CheT |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/Che-T |
Scandinavian style kogin sashimi clasp purse mini pouch
A purse pouch with a Scandinavian pattern expressed with Koginsashi. Even with the same pattern, just changing the color of the thread gives a different impression, making it a very cute item. A design that makes you want to collect and decorate in multiple colors. It might be fun to go out with your best friends with your favorite color.
| Product name | Scandinavian patterned Koginsashi Gamaguchi mini pouch. [Made-to-order products] |
| Price (tax included) | 1,300 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/12847343/detail |
| creator name | kano |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/kanoc4 |
Unique Koginsashi drawstring pouch
A drawstring pouch with a unique form made with Koginsashi. The double-sided embroidered design is thick and does not sag even though there is no gusset. The black and white monochrome color gives it a luxurious feel, and it seems to be a useful item for storing small items.
| Product name | Koginsashi round drawstring pouch 18×18 |
| Price (tax included) | 4,000 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/12019258/detail |
| creator name | u’s |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/creator/5774802 |
Tote bag with Koginsashi strap combined with denim
A sturdy tote bag made in combination with denim. The handle has an original kogin-zashi that is inspired by a ribbon, giving it a cute and lovely impression. The back side of the handle is also made of denim, so it is durable and can hold somewhat heavy items. It is a design that is easy to use everyday.
| Product name | Koginsashi strap tote bag [Denim remake ☺︎ Cotton bag] ⌘ Made-to-order ⌘ Special project 2208 |
| Price (tax included) | 8,000 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/12677708/detail |
| creator name | CheT |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/Che-T |
Recommended Handmade Kit for Kogin-zashi
Koginsashi boasts high popularity even in the handmade area, and there are various kits that anyone can easily start.
Kogin-zashi kit for making a mini roller pouch in a cute form
A handmade kit that allows you to make a palm-sized mini roller pouch by doing Koginsashi. This difficulty level is recommended for beginners and above who have about 10 coasters experience in Koginsashi. If you don’t have a little sewing experience, you may have a hard time sewing the pouch. If you want to make a cute pouch with a high degree of perfection, please try it.
| Product name | Mini Roller Pouch Koginsashi Kit |
| Price (tax included) | 2,600 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/7759175/detail |
| creator name | Benimatsuya (Kogin, Japanese paper) |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/benimatsu |
Koginsashi kit for making a retro-modern sacoche
A handmade kit that allows you to make a fashionable and retro-modern sacoche using Koginsashi. Materials other than Kogin needles, sewing needles, and sewing threads are available. It may be difficult unless you are a beginner with Koginsashi experience, but the sense of accomplishment when you complete it will be irresistible.
| Product name | Changed beans box R1 / Sacoche Koginsashi kit |
| Price (tax included) | 2,600 yen |
| Product page URL | https://www.creema.jp/item/8809115/detail |
| creator name | Benimatsuya (Kogin, Japanese paper) |
| Store homepage URL | https://www.creema.jp/c/benimatsu |
summary
In this article, we reviewed the overview of the famous Japanese dyeing and weaving Koginsashi , picked up recommended items and handmade kits, and introduced them.