背守りSemamori - Japanese Stitched Talisman - Sampler Workshop
Learn the fascinating story of stitched talismans used on children’s clothing in Japan while you make a sampler of up to twelve authentic historical designs. These will be drawn from the Yamazakis’ collection of antique semamori sample books stitched over a hundred years ago (semamori-cho) and children’s kimono. You will have the chance during the workshop to see these pieces and be inspired by them too.
Semamori are stitched talismans traditionally used to protect babies and children from misfortune. Using the power of hand stitching they were used to ward off bad spirits since the 12th century, The designs used are full of meaning - wishes for children to grow strong and swift (hemp leaf), live long (pine) and hundreds more. The wish and care of mothers and grandmothers for children to be healthy and strong and long-lived is universal. The range of patterns for these stitched talismans continued to grow in the nineteenth century and creation of samples became part of the school curriculum
In the workshop we will explore the context and history of these moving and beautiful stitcheries, using a selection of motifs from antique Semamorichos (pattern books produced by young women). We’ll learn how to transfer and stitch as we look at the many applications for the little stitched talismans.
A great introduction to semamori concepts and techniques - you can incorporate them into quilts, clothing, bags, journals and more. The sample we make on the day can be hung/framed as is or you may wish to make it into a very special journal cover (pattern provided).
Alison and Shuji Yamazaki are specialists in traditional Japanese textiles and stitching and love to share the cultural context, history and meaning around these crafts that we enjoy in our creative lives today.
When:
Friday August 7, 2026
10 - 4 each day
Where:
Strathnairn Arts Centre, Holt ACT
Strathnairn Arts is located on the northwestern edge of Canberra near the Murrumbidgee River
90 Stockdill Drive, Holt ACT 2615
What’s included:
Kit of threads Japanese fabrics, needles, semamori patterns.
Morning and afternoon tea with simple home baking (there is a wonderful cafe at Strathnairn for lunch option or if you like to bring your own lucn, fridge and microwave are available).
