How to Make Sushi Mats

A sushi mat can be a fun project to make.

Sushi mats are used to make sushi. They are relatively inexpensive to buy; however, if you want to make them, sushi mats are easy to make.

Things You'll Need

• Bamboo skewers 8' or 12'
• Quilting thread
• Sewing needle

Instructions

1. Thread your needle with double thread. The length is really up to you, but a working length is 36 inches doubled.

2. Tie a knot around the middle of one bamboo skewer. This is your starting point.

3. Line the next bamboo skewer up parallel to the first, and tie the two sticks together with a knot. Continue this step two more times and you have the first group. Cut the thread leaving a 2-inch tail. Each group will consist of four bamboo skewers.

4. Attach your first group of four bamboo skewers to the second group by tying the ending threads together in a knot. Repeat Step 3, and continue to attach one group at a time until your sushi mat is the length that you desire. A good rule is making your sushi mat 18 to 20 groups in length.

5. Lay the partially complete sushi mat on a flat surface, and make sure each skewer is lined up evenly. It's time to reinforce each side of the mat. Starting on the left side, tie a knot to the first bamboo skewer about an inch from the side's edge and continue attaching the next skewer with a knot and then the next until you get the 5th skewer. At this time, you should make a double knot as reinforcement. Continue in this way until you reach the top of your sushi mat. Repeat on the other side. When complete, you should have three columns of threaded knots running from top to bottom of your sushi mat.

Tips & Warnings

• If your thread runs out, re-thread your needle and continue.

• To protect and keep your newly made sushi mat clean, wrap it in a piece of plastic wrap.

References

• How to Make a Bamboo Sushi Mat

Resources

• What's Cooking America: How To Make Sushi
• West Marine: Bamboo Skewers