The Book of Boro: Techniques and Patterns Inspired by Traditional Japanese Textiles

By: Susan Briscoe

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Synopsis: A collection of boro-inspired projects and techniques which celebrate this traditional Japanese textile and its relevance to the modern sewer and quilter.The word boro comes from the Japanese boroboro meaning something tattered or repaired. It refers to textiles that have been mended or patched together for utilitarian, not decorative, purposes to make the fabric stronger and warmer, and to mend torn and threadbare areas.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, turned edge and reverse; darning techniques and methods for distressing and ageing fabrics to achieve an authentic boro finish.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 threads. 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). Also included are:Instructions on improvisational patchworkApplique: raw and turned edges and reverseDarning Methods for distressing and ageing your finished boro