The skein bands changed to the new style 'natural' look bands in spring 2023, but please note it is exactly the same thread as shown in the second photo (if you are trying to colour match.
Medium 6-ply sashiko thread 20m skein. Suitable for all your sashiko stitching. Maybe used double or singly (do not split!). Available in 47 gorgeous colours, #12 is deep red. Ideal for use with the Olympus hanafukin sashiko samplers, other Olympus fabrics, or fabrics with a slightly lower thread count than most patchwork cottons.
Please note - this thread is not mercerised, so it feels slightly thicker than the 100m mercerised sashiko thread. Mercerisation is a process that burns off the slight fluffiness on the surface of the thread, making it glossier, by running the thread at ultra high speed through a gas flame. Non mercerised thread feels softer and has a beautiful matte finish, which is thought to be more like antique sashiko threads. Because it is softer, it needs to be treated with a little more care than mercerised sashiko threads.Sashiko needles - use either Olympus Thread Mfg. Co. sashiko needles 2 pack
or 4 pack
, the Clover pack of 3 long needles
, or the larger needles from the Clover pack of 8
.Not recommended as a hand quilting thread for big stitch in a longer length, as it is so soft, it may shred slightly. For the same reason, don't use it with very tightly woven fabrics. 370m 4-ply fine, 100m 6-ply medium, 80m 3ply fine, or Lecien Cosmo 'Hidamari' 30m 6-ply fine sashiko threads are all more suitable where stitching through wadding is desired.Skeins should be opened like perle cotton, as all the threads are tied together at one point (unlike 6-strand embroidery floss). Cut through the skein near the knot, thread the skein band back on (to identify it later if you need more), and plait the thread loosely. Pull individual strands of thread out at the looped end of the plait.
100% cotton
Made in Japan
#12 20m sashiko thread deep red
Sashiko threads skeins have to be opened out before use. Slide of the skein band first. You will find all the thread is tied together at one point. Cut through the skein at the knot, so all the threads are cut (you'll find these are the ideal length for stitching doubled). Push all the thread through the skein band, and then plait the thread loosely. Pull out each thread as you need it from the loop end of the plait, not the 'fringed' end. This saves time trying to wind the thread into a ball, keeps it tidy and you know the thread shade number if you need to re order.
