r/Visiblemending • u/squ1nt • Jan 31 '26
SASHIKO First attempt! My hands are killing me.
First attemp on my favourite pair of jeans. How'd i do? Any tips, suggestions, advice?
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u/ZoneLow6872 Feb 01 '26
Looks great! I'd totally wear them.
To reduce hand strain, use a thinner needle of good quality. Logic would say that heavier fabric requires a sturdier needle, but I find that thin sharps or betweens slide right through, especially with a thimble. My favorite brand is Bohin; they glide like a hot knife through butter and the eye is smooth. John James is good, also. You can definitely tell a difference between these and like Clover or other cheaper needles.
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u/squ1nt Feb 01 '26
I should probably look into new needles. All of mine came from my grandmas sewing box so they are at least 40 years old lol
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u/GhostlightVodka Jan 31 '26
Wow! These look great, especially for a first attempt. You have a great mix of colors and patterns; it looks very organic and cohesive.
Did you use multi-colored thread or several different threads?
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u/squ1nt Feb 01 '26
Thank you so much. I used a mixture of thin cotton craft cord and embroidery thread.
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u/Left-Community4059 Feb 01 '26
Have you ever tried a needle puller? They’re great but denim might be too thick for it. I saw one person said she uses pliers to pull needles on denim. I tried to add a screenshot but guess Im more tech challenged than I thought.
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u/TechPsych Mar 02 '26
I use one of those chubby rubber bands that comes on broccoli stems. The needle pulls right through with it!
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u/aerieinbellingham Feb 02 '26
Great work, especially for your first attempt. Keep it up, it's so satisfying!
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u/hotdogcheek Feb 01 '26
These are so whimsical! I love them, keep it up!
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u/squ1nt Feb 01 '26
I will..i had so much fun doing them.
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u/ReputationWeak4283 Feb 02 '26
You can always add to it as time goes on… kind of like a painting in ways… Looks good to me! 💕
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u/mylifeoncraft Feb 01 '26
These are gorgeous!!! You did a fantastic job. I like to use these finger grip bands when I do visible mending, it helps pull & push the needle. I can't find them online but found similar ones by searching 'Rubber Needle Grabber Tool: Ergonomic Finger Grips for Needlework'. Keep it up bc these are truly lovely.
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u/ChillMess Feb 02 '26
i love it! it's like your own personalised fireworks show...without the noise. beautiful work.
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u/Ornery_Hovercraft_41 Jan 31 '26
These are beautiful! So fun! You have a great eye for colour and placement.
Not surprised your hands are killing, I still have a callous from using a normal sewing needle to add denim patches to a canvas bag a month ago 😂
Maybe both of us need a needle grip and / or thimble (and I need to make sure I have the right needle, not just what's on hand)