Sashiko embroidery became popular in the early 18th century in Japan. It was used by the Japanese women to make warm clothes for their husbands by layering fabric. It was originally done to patch clothes with another layer of fabric then stitched but eventually developed into more decorative designs. The fabric was dyed indigo with native plants. The layered fabric is stitched together with the running stitch. These kits made by Olympus contain: 100% cotton Olympus Navy Blue Sashiko cloth & White Sashiko thread, Long & Short Olympus Sashiko needles & an Olympus Sashiko Thimble, chart and instructions. Made in Japan.