"In the hands of Awaji needlewomen, sashiko stitching blossomed from a purely utilitarian technique into a rich decorative expression. Women drew their inspiration for common sashiko patterns from the surrounding world. Variations of a pattern that resembles a fishing net are particularly popular on Awaji sashiko no donza [coats of local fisherman]. Other patterns are found on sashiko-stitched textiles throughout Japan, sharing names such as persimmon flower (kaki no hana) or pine bark (matsukawabishi)."

https://www.tatter.org/sashiko-stitching