SEMAMORI – Japanese Embroidery Workshop

Description

Discover the art of Semamori, small embroidered symbols traditionally added to children’s clothing in Japan to convey wishes for happiness and well-being. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore this centuries-old craft and apply it to your own textile items—like a t-shirt, bag, or jacket—turning a simple piece into a unique, personalised creation. We will provide classic Japanese motifs as inspiration, each with its own cultural meaning, so you can combine tradition with your own style.

What participants will do

• Learn about the history and symbolism of Semamori in Japanese culture

• Choose one or more motifs from different Japanese traditional designs

• You can embroider on your own clothing (bring an item you’d like to personalise), or if you’d rather not, you can use the provided fabric pieces to make patches or charms.

• Transform ordinary textile items into unique, culturally inspired pieces

Level

Beginner – no sewing experience required

Minimum age: 16+

Duration

2 hours

Language:

English (the instructor can provide individual support in Dutch or Spanish)

Materials included

• Fabric for patches or amulets

• Embroidery threads

• Needles

• Printed patterns

Price

€49 per participant (all materials included)

Outcome for participants

Participants leave with a personalised textile item or patch that combines traditional Japanese embroidery with modern style. You’ll gain a hands-on introduction to Japanese cultural symbols, practice a beautiful craft, and create a one-of-a-kind item that reflects both tradition and your own creativity.

Date and time: June 6 , 10:30

Location: Gigant, Apeldoorn

Workshop Instructor:  Inés Perpiñá is a textile designer and embroidery artist based in the Netherlands, with a strong focus on Japanese textile traditions. She trained in advanced garment construction at the Meester Opleiding Coupeur in Amsterdam and further deepened her practice in Japan through a yukata course. Her work combines traditional Japanese techniques such as sashiko stitching, patchwork, and Semamori-inspired embroidery with contemporary design and upcycling. Through her project Ikimori, she creates garments, textile objects, and workshops that connect craftsmanship, cultural knowledge, and hands-on creative practice. Cancellation policy:

• Cancellations made up to 7 days before the workshop are eligible for a 50% refund (processed within 14 days after the event date)

• Cancellations less than 7 days before the workshop: no refund

• If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your spot to someone else (please inform us in advance)

• In the unlikely event that the workshop is cancelled by the organiser, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule