KURUME KASURI Fabric - Pale Plum (Bleached)

[About Kurume Kasuri]
A collection of twenty interconnected looms, operated by a single motor, embody the retro charm of Showa-era belt-driven power looms. Established in 1948, Kurume Kasuri is a representative traditional pre-dyed woven fabric of Japan. Its hallmark is a soft texture reminiscent of hand weaving. With a labor-intensive process involving over 30 steps spanning 2 to 4 months, it is an ideal choice for individuals seeking to create meticulously crafted pieces within the realm of Japan's traditional textiles.

[Weaving Characteristics]
"Vertical and Horizontal Kasuri" (Tateyoko Kasuri) utilizes the interaction between warp threads (Tateito) and weft threads (Yokoito) to create patterns. Kurume remains the last bastion of expertise in this technique, using power looms to weave Tateyoko Kasuri. The presence of binding (Kukuri) machinery and skilled binders, in tandem with this technique, has established Kurume Kasuri as a paramount producer of Tateyoko Kasuri worldwide.

[Bleach Discharge Kasuri]
In the usual kasuri technique, portions 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 example, navy fabric with white or black patterns and white fabric with bold contrasts are common. 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, leaving them white and creating patterns of black or navy on a white background. Reversing the conventional process not only involves reordering the steps but also adds preparatory work before and after, making bleach discharge kasuri about 2 to 3 steps more intricate than regular kasuri in terms of labor.

[Seasonal Flowers]
Incorporating seasonal flowers such as plum blossoms, chrysanthemums, camellias, and hydrangeas infuses life's beginnings and celebrations with the symbolism of flowers. Each flower carries its own "language of flowers," and the tradition of adorning life with flowers, whether "carrying flowers" or "offering flowers," enriches the spirit.

[Plum Blossoms]
A motif symbolizing flowering through adversity, plum blossoms bear auspicious connotations. The phonetic connection between "ume" (plum) and "give birth" makes them significant for prayers of safe childbirth. Plum blossoms' overall flower language includes "elegance," "nobility," "patience," and "faithfulness." These meanings stem from plum blossoms flourishing in February, a time of lingering cold. Their tenacious blooming amid chilly winds led to these associations. Additionally, the flower language of "faithfulness" is linked to Sugawara no Michizane, a Heian-period aristocrat. Honored as a deity of learning, Sugawara was exiled to Dazaifu in Kyushu, and a cherished plum tree is said to have flown to him during this time. This legend resulted in the attribution of "faithfulness" to plum blossoms.

[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.