Kogin Basics – An English Starter Guide to Kogin Embroidery
A little while ago, I shared that I had opened my Etsy shop. Today, I'd like to introduce my first PDF in more detail.
◆Kogin Basics
The first PDF in my collection is Kogin Basics, an English starter guide to Kogin embroidery.
For this guide, I chose Musubi-bana, one of the smallest traditional Kogin motifs. Although it is simple, it is also one of the building blocks used in many larger motifs and designs.
Rather than simply teaching how to stitch one pattern, I wanted this guide to help you understand how Kogin motifs grow and develop. Starting with Musubi-bana, you'll learn how to read Kogin charts, how to stitch the motif, and how the same motif can be expanded into six different designs.
One of the things I love most about Kogin is its balance of simplicity and creativity. The stitching itself is surprisingly simple, yet those simple movements can be combined to create incredibly rich and complex designs. I hope this guide helps more people experience that same joy.
The instructional section contains 17 pages, designed to guide complete beginners one step at a time without feeling overwhelmed.
The PDF also includes:
* 6 practice chart designs
* A motif reference page
* Additional guidance pages
for a total of **25 pages**.
My goal isn't simply to teach you how to copy a pattern.
I hope this guide helps you understand how Kogin motifs are built, so you can eventually combine motifs, create your own designs, and enjoy Kogin with more confidence and freedom.
◆Recommended Materials
One challenge for many people outside Japan is that Kogin supplies aren't always easy to find. Because of that, I've been testing materials that are more widely available.
I'm not an expert in other needlecrafts, so these recommendations come simply from my own experience of trying different materials for Kogin.
Needles
Any blunt-tip tapestry needle can work well, including tapestry needles for knitting or cross stitch.
Longer needles are useful when picking up several stitches at once, while shorter needles may feel easier if you prefer working one stitch at a time.
Recently I tried knitting tapestry needles from Daiso in the U.S. Aside from being a little shorter than traditional Kogin needles, they worked surprisingly well. Finding easy-to-buy alternatives makes Kogin much more accessible.
Thread
You can use embroidery floss, sashiko thread, or cotton crochet thread.
Personally, I prefer threads with a tighter twist that stay together while stitching. I also like choosing different thread thicknesses rather than separating embroidery floss into fewer strands. For me, tightly twisted threads give a fuller look and are simply more enjoyable to stitch with.
Fabric
I generally recommend linen or cotton fabrics around 18–20 count that aren't too soft.
My personal favorite is 20-count Zweigart linen. It's easy to see the fabric threads and comfortable for beginners. If you choose finer fabrics such as 25-count linen, using a smaller tapestry needle makes stitching much easier.
If your fabric feels too soft, a little fabric starch can also help make stitching more comfortable.
◆Why I Created a New English Guide
Originally, I considered translating the Japanese starter guide that I had already published. However, after answering questions at events in the United States and talking with people on social media, I realized that simply translating it wouldn't be enough.
People outside Japan often use different materials, come from different crafting backgrounds, and have different questions when learning Kogin. So instead of translating the original guide, I decided to create an entirely new one.
Because this guide is written in English for people from many different countries, I organized the information with a broader perspective and included explanations that would be helpful regardless of where someone lives.
I'm sure I'll continue learning through future workshops and conversations with stitchers around the world. When that happens, I'd love to create an updated edition someday.
For now, I hope Kogin Basics becomes a welcoming first step into the world of Kogin embroidery.
Satonobou