Kogin-zashi

Kogin-zashi (こぎん刺し) is one of the techniques of sashiko, or traditional Japanese decorative reinforcement stitching, that originated in the part of present-day Aomori Prefecture controlled by the Tsugaru clan during the Edo period (1603-1867).

Peasants initially attempted to stay warm by wearing multiple layers of linen, but the fabric frayed easily.

In the 20th century, the craft of kogin-zashi was streamlined, establishing the three general types that are seen today: nishi-kogin, higashi-kogin, and mishima-kogin.

[5] The higashi-kogin pattern originated in the area east of the city of Hirosaki, in today's Minamitsugaru District.

The area was not as well-off as other parts of the Tsugaru region, suffering from poor harvests caused by the earlier onset of the harsh winter.

Two small indigo purses decorated with a central stripe of dense white embroidery.
Various items in Aomori Prefecture featuring kogin-zashi patterns
Diagrams of kimono viewed from the back, with embroidery designs on the shoulders, sleeves and body.
Kogin-zashi patterns as depicted in Sadahiko Hibino's Ouminzui , written in 1788