KURUME KASURI Fabric - Sayagata Gray (Bleached)

[About Kurume Kasuri]
A retro belt-driven power loom from the Showa era, comprising twenty interconnected looms powered by a single motor. Established in 1948, Kurume Kasuri is a renowned traditional pre-dyed woven fabric originating in Kurume. It stands as a representative of Japan's weaving heritage, known for its soft texture akin to hand weaving. With a labor-intensive process, it takes 2 to 4 months to complete over 30 intricate steps. This fabric is perfect for those seeking to create unique pieces with a touch of Japan's traditional textiles.

[Weaving Characteristics]
"Vertical and Horizontal Kasuri" (Tateyoko Kasuri) expresses patterns through the overlapping of warp threads (Tateito) and weft threads (Yokoito). Kurume is the last remaining producer mastering this technique using power looms. With the presence of binding (Kukuri) machinery and skilled binders, it's not an exaggeration to say that Kurume Kasuri is the sole location globally preserving the highest level of expertise in Tateyoko Kasuri.

[Bleach Discharge Kasuri]
In the conventional kasuri technique, areas intended for patterns are bound with thread to resist dyeing (binding), creating raised patterns. As a result, the patterned areas appear lighter against the background. For instance, navy fabric with white or black patterns, and white fabric with bold contrasts. The bleach discharge technique reverses this process. Initially, the entire fabric is dyed in colors like black or navy. Dyed threads are then bound according to the desired pattern (binding process). Subsequently, bleaching removes color from the unbound portions, creating patterns of black or navy on a white background. Reversing the standard process not only involves reordering the steps but also increases the overall number of preparatory steps, making bleach discharge kasuri about 2 to 3 steps more intricate than regular kasuri.

[Sayagata Pattern]
The Sayagata pattern symbolizes perpetual prosperity, carrying the meaning of "continuous and lasting without interruption." It signifies the desire for a home's prosperity and longevity. This motif, brought from China, involves connecting a series of broken swastikas (Manji) diagonally. "Man" represents "everything" or "all," symbolizing the universe and infinity.

[Specifications]
Warp Yarn: 40/2, Weft Yarn: 20/1
Fabric Thickness: Standard
100% Chemically Dyed Cotton
100% Cotton
Width: Approximately 37 cm
Finished with boiling and sun drying (approx. 10% shrinkage, allowing for immediate cutting and sewing after purchase)

[Notes]
Sold in increments of 6 meters
Price reflects the cost per 6 meters
Slight color variation between the actual product and photos is possible.