Sashiko Pattern Tsuzukiyamagata

The traditional Japanese pattern tsuzukiyamagata 続き山形 is a fancy sashiko moyōsashi pattern. | Sashiko Pattern

Tsuzukiyamagata つづき山形 means “continuing mountain form” in Japanese. It’s called “mountain range pattern” by Daruma which sounds more lyrical than the literal translation.

The tsuzukiyamagata pattern is a traditional Japanese pattern. It represents a geometric abstraction of –you guessed it– a mountain range. It is made up of many straight lines breaking at an angle and crossing over one another.

Though it may look a bit confusing at first, tsuzukiyamagata is a pattern that is rather easy to stitch. I say that, but I actually messed up my first go on the pattern. But I’m a rather rash person, so you should be fine.

An enamel bowl with a dish cloth draped across its edge and a bottle with washing detergent next to it
A Tsuzukiyamagata tea towel in for a wash

Origin of the sashiko pattern tsuzukiyamagata

Nature has provided the necessary inspiration for this sashiko pattern. Natural motives are often translated into repetitive geometrical designs in sashiko.

Leaves have inspired the asanoha sashiko pattern or the sanjūbishitsunagi pattern, waves the sashiko pattern seigaiha. In this case, maybe a view of the minami alps has been turned into a pattern?

The sashiko pattern tsuzukiyamagata in pastel colors on white fabric up close

Meaning of the sashiko pattern tsuzukiyamagata

Tsuzukiyamagata is not counted among the kisshōmonyō 吉祥文様 “lucky omen pattern.”

There is not much literature concerning the pattern's meaning, but if you’re so inclined, you could see the pattern as a representation of life’s ups and downs.

For me, this pattern is a good reminder that whenever I am deep down in a valley, I’m going to climb up eventually.
Also, while I’m on top, I try not to forget that I probably won’t be on top forever, and I have to enjoy being there as much as possible.

The sashiko pattern tsuzukiyamagata in vibrant colors on white fabric up close
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In Japanese they say nanakorobi yaoki 七転び八起き, which means “Stand up eight times if you fall down seven times.”

To me, this pattern is a stitched version of this Japanese expression.

The sashiko pattern tsuzukiyamagata in pastel colors with pink on white fabric up close

Sashiko pattern tsuzukiyamagata’s stitching directions

The pattern looks rather confusing at first, but it’s actually not that difficult. Following the correct lines needs a little bit of practice, but after taking a couple of turns, it’s actually quite fun. And tsuzukiyamagata is way faster to finish than patterns like the sashiko pattern jujihanazashi, for example.

Pre-printed fabric by Daruma

If you want to give tsuzukiyamagata a go, but you don't want the hassle of drawing the pattern yourself, Daruma offers fabric that has the pattern printed on it. The lines wash out on the first wash. Super easy!

Check price on Amazon
The sashiko pattern tsuzukiyamagata stitched half way in pink and green