How to Use a Sashiko Thimble

Sashiko is a functional and decorative embroidery style. As with other Japanese textile making and design forms, the sashiko thimble not only provides protection and needle guidance, but also allows for greater fingertip usage and dexterity. Unlike fingertip thimbles that impair fingertip usage, a sashiko thimble or yubinuki (thimble ring) sits on the middle finger and uses the entire hand for leverage.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Buy or make a well-fitting thimble ring or yubinuki. Most craft stores carry modern "Westernized" metal thimble rings that consist of a single metal loop for the ring and a dimpled tab that serves as leverage at the base of the middle finger. Traditional thread yubinuki, on the other hand, typically look like a wide band decorated with colored thread, a heavy metal dimpled band or heavy leather band that traditionally offers leverage by sitting just above the middle knuckle of the middle finger.

2. Determine a needle length and thickness for your project. A longer or heavier needle requires a metal or thick sashiko thimble. In sashiko quilting, you can expect to create several stitches (a line) on your needle in a large section of cloth before pulling or pushing the needle through the entire way. Hand stitching in this fashion can require, depending also on the thickness of your cloth, a great deal of physical force and support.

3. Put on your modern thimble ring or yubinuki. Keep in mind that if you choose the modern ring, push the ring to the base of your middle finger with the dimpled and slightly concave surface of the tab parallel to the palm.

4. Start your first sashiko line of stitches.

5. Push the needle through the cloth by placing your thimble tab or yubinuki against the needle head in the same way as a traditional fingertip thimble. Use your entire hand for leverage.

6. Wear your threaded yubinuki as a fashion or decorative ring when not sewing.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep in mind that a thimble serves first and foremost as leverage, needle guidance and protection. If a yubinuki works better or provides better protection for you at the base of your middle finger or on another finger, use it as you see fit. Although the middle finger should give the best support, tastes and comfort levels differ.
• Never use a thimble for extended periods as repetitive stress injuries can occur when applying continuous or repeated pressure to a finger or joint area and such stress can cause injuries to not only the hand, but also the wrist and arm. Take breaks often and switch fingers or hands whenever possible during any sewing project and especially for sashiko.

Resources

• Compare thimble rings and leather thimbles at Jo-Ann