Traditional Japanese needlework has exploded in popularity, but a book from a third-generation artisan aims to bring more context to the craft's newfound popularity. | QUADRILLE PUBLISHING

In recent years, sashiko , a Japanese needlework tradition, has gained a new cultural cache among international fashionistas and craft hobbyists. Most notably, the Iwate Prefecture-based Sashiko Gals project has helped rural artisans insert their needlework into New Balance sneakers, North Face jackets, New Era caps and more.

Hardly a day goes by without my social media feeds featuring overseas creators claiming to be sashiko experts.…