Boro, meaning "tattered rags" in Japanese, is a traditional mending technique that transforms worn textiles into works of art. Originally practiced by rural Japanese families who couldn't afford to replace clothing, boro involves layering patches over damaged areas and securing them with decorative running stitches called sashiko. Rather than hiding repairs, this technique celebrates them, creating beautifully textured garments that tell stories through their visible mends.
Today, boro has found new life in the sustainable fashion movement and circular textiles trend. Modern makers are embracing visible mending as both an environmental statement and aesthetic choice, using bold contrasting threads to make repairs a deliberate design feature. From designer collections to community workshops, boro-inspired techniques are helping people extend the life of their clothing while creating unique, personalized pieces.
This ancient practice of turning necessity into beauty offers a powerful alternative to throwaway culture—proving that the most sustainable fashion choice is often simply learning to mend what we already own.
Join us for an afternoon of stitching exploration, looking at ways to embellish and stretch the boundaries of the traditional Boro technique. You can choose to work on samples or mending your garments, whichever is most appropriate to you.
This workshop is part of Blackheath Embroiderers season of embroidery and textile art sessions looking at textile technoques from around the globe.
Our sessions are led by group members with experience and passion for the subject.
We welcome textile enthusiasts of all levels of experience, just bring along a basic sewing kit, embroidery threads, some assorted fabrics and, if you like, a garment to mend!
We also offer an online zoom link to all ticket holders, just in case you can't make it in person - the link will be sent to you with your booking confirmation.
