ABOVE: Sachiko Yoshida and Patricia Belyea at the Festival of Quilts 2026.
By Patricia Belyea
BIRMINGHAM UK The luster of silk. Fine hand stitching. Traditional Japanese patterns. Motifs drawn from daily life.
For more than 40 years, Sachiko Yoshida has created exquisite quilts from vintage and antique kimono. Everything is stitched by hand — the piecing, quilting, appliqué, and embroidery.
Recognized as one of Japan’s top quilters, Sachiko is also a sensei (honored teacher). Some of her students have studied with her for more than 25 years.
At the Festival of Quilts 2026, Sachiko’s meticulous and artful quilts filled a textile gallery. She graciously met with visitors, sharing the traditions and techniques behind her work.
Color Play on Circles II
Sachiko Yoshida — Saitama, Japan
Ocean Wave — Seigaiha
Sachiko Yoshida — Saitama, Japan
Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom
Sachiko Yoshida — Saitama, Japan
STUDENT WORK
Sachiko told me that seven of her students were showing their quilts at the Festival. Their work is a testament to her influence as a teacher.
Popping Marbles
Masako Nishimura — Nishitsugarugun, Japan
My Mother’s Warmth
Noriko Naganuma — Fuchu, Japan
Kabuki Dolls from My Hometown
Reiko Watanabe — Isawagun, Japan
Echoes of Color
Michiko Obuchi — Chiba, Japan
Sunflower — Homage to Maki-e Artist Gekkyo Shinoda
Aiko Shinoda — Kawaguchi City, Japan
My Mother’s Favorite Winter Peonies
Mineko Miyashita
Oh my! I somehow missed photographing Color Harmony, a quilt by Kuniko Adachi.
MORE FROM JAPAN
Blue Tone II
Aki Sakai — Hachioji, Japan
Peacock
Naomi Otomo — Toda, Japan
From Sachiko’s shimmering silk masterpieces to the work of her students and other Japanese makers, these quilts offered a glimpse into the depth, discipline, and enduring artistry of quilting in Japan.
TO SEE MORE BLOG POSTS ABOUT FESTIVAL OF QUILTS 2026:
winning quilts at FOQ 2026 +click here
competition quilts at FOQ 2026 :: part one +click here
competition quilts at FOQ 2026 :: part two +click here
textile galleries at FOQ 2026 +click here
something unexpected at FOQ 2026 +click here
red poppies at FOQ 2026 +click here
peeps, shopping & learning at FOQ 2026 +click here
