I realized that I had shared my jean jacket on social media but not on my blog. In 2020 I had an unfinished Hawaiian quilt top that I made using our Orchid Oasis Hawaiian Quilt Pattern. I thought it would be fun to use it and bring a favorite old jean jacket back to life using Japanese Sashiko. Who doesn't love a soft well worn jean jacket?

I read about Japanese sashiko and decided this was the perfect project for that. Since sashiko is the process of stitching and mending using beautiful visible stitches, I decided to begin using the jean jacket as my canvas. I began by laying out the jacket and deciding where I would place the quilt top. I wanted the background piece to fit between the stitched details on the back of the jacket. I also knew I did not just want the appliqué to end at the stitching on the jacket. I made sure and placed a few of the appliqué pieces over the stitching on the back and used some of the appliqué to cover the thread bare places on the collar and cuffs. Once I had decided where to place the pieces, I then appliquéd them in place. Then the fun began. I used 28 wt Aurifil Quilting Thread for some of the sashiko as well as some #8 pearl cotton. Next, I just began stitching the pieces. I did some radiant stitching in the background on the back of the jacket as well as some stitching on the appliqué pieces that covered warn areas on the collar and the cuffs. This is a great use for a piece you have not finished or just want a fun project and create some wearable art. I think it would be fun with some of our 2 Fabric Applique Quilt Patterns too.

I have really enjoyed wearing this jacket. I am looking forward to some cooler weather so it can come out of the closet and be enjoyed.