My Story
Kogin stitching is said to have been created about 300 years ago by farming women in the Tsugaru region of northern Japan. In the harsh winters, only linen clothing was permitted. By stitching coarse linen with cotton thread, they strengthened the fabric and improved its warmth, allowing them to endure the cold.
Many kogin patterns are inspired by plants and animals, reflecting the rich natural environment in which this craft was born.
◆ Enjoying traditional patterns and the essence of kogin
As someone born in Tsugaru, I feel deep respect for the artistry created by the women of that time. I treasure traditional patterns - designs that they themselves might still recognize as “kogin.”
It is said that women once competed to create unique patterns unlike anyone else’s.
Countless designs were born, and over time, only those loved by many have remained.
Imagining this history makes me feel a strong connection to traditional motifs.
Many patterns seem to balance individuality and harmony in a subtle way, and I find great fascination in this quiet complexity.
At the time, the use of colored thread was restricted by domain regulations.
Yet Tsugaru is a region where the seasons are vividly felt.
Sometimes I wonder what kinds of colorful kogin works might have been created if those women had been free to choose their colors.
Inspired by this curiosity, I create pieces using a wide range of color combinations.
◆ Designing through an inner dialogue
When creating kogin art - especially skill-building kits - I often imagine what the women of the past might say if they saw my work.
In my mind, conversations unfold in the Tsugaru dialect, guiding me through moments of uncertainty and discovery.
This quiet dialogue is part of the joy of designing.
◆ Kogin stitching as a tool for enjoying life
In 2019, I participated in an exhibition in Paris and was able to witness the power of kogin firsthand.
I met people with connections to Hirosaki and Tsugaru, and learned much about culture and communication through these encounters.
Although there were many challenges in terms of sales, it became a meaningful experience.
Some workshop participants later began their own kogin journey, and we still stay connected today.
These relationships are a true treasure to me.
Back in Yokohama, hearing honest impressions from people unfamiliar with kogin helps me think about how this traditional craft can live within modern life.
That same year, I also had the opportunity to assist a class at a local elementary school where kogin stitching was introduced as part of cultural studies.
Listening to children’s sincere thoughts deepened my understanding of the value and future of traditional crafts.
They reminded me that traditional kogin is not plain — it holds a quiet depth and beauty.
◆ Continuing kogin as a lifelong practice
Most of my color choices differ from the classic indigo cloth with white thread.
However, my work is deeply influenced by traditional kogin and represents my personal interpretation of it.
As I grow older, encounter new materials, and gain experience, my expression will naturally continue to evolve.
Still, I hope to keep enjoying kogin while staying true to my own perspective.
With these thoughts in mind, I create my work each day, learning through trial and error.
I look forward to continuing this journey.
Satonobou