Recommended tools for drawing your own sashiko patterns
I've been using these kind of tools for more than 10 years and I love them. Lots. But if you don't want to invest into sashiko supplies yet, you really don't have to. When people started doing sashiko, there were no heat-erasable pens, no cutting mats, no washi tape. These are just some recommendations for things that I cherish. Feel free to choose.
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Washi Tape
I always use Kamoi washi tape, but I think any brand should be fine.
Ruler with a grid
I have two rulers, one with bright markings for drafting on dark fabric, one with black markings for bright fabrics.
But this ruler works for both, bright and dark colors. I haven't tested it, but this is the one I'd buy if I didn't have two already.
Heat-erasable pens
Unless you use a very dark-colored fabric, these pens are great to get your sashiko pattern onto your fabric. Very fine lines that can be erased instantly with an iron should you mess up.
Be aware that on darker fabric, the markers may leave marks. Just check at a corner of the fabric to make sure you can remove it fully.
Use chalk based pencils as a substitute.
Sashiko cloth by Daruma
I love this cloth by daruma. The markings let me draft any pattern super quickly and wash out when I'm finished.
Of course, you can use any kind of fabric with no markings at all. Cotton that is not too tightly woven gives the best results.
Big, big cutting mat
My cutting mat is huge. It's a great help when drawing accurate patterns thanks to its lines. Besides its main purpose, the mat is great because it helps keep the fabric in place.