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Become a Student of Shibori
Learn the Japanese Art of Shibori (Tie Dye) with authentic Indigo
How to get started
Pick one from the below patterns to dye the Azuma bag with:
Hakomura
The simplest but also one of our favorite techniques that only requires the bag and rubber bands.
Itajime
A geometric pattern that can be made with the 4 pairs of chopsticks and rubber bands.
Gomu-maki
A simple circular pattern that can be created with the "Aobana" pen and rubber bands.
Yoroidan
A dynamic design created by using the "Aobana" pen, rubber bands and yarn.
Tatami-Maki
The "sibling" to the Yoroidan pattern that creates thinner lines requiring the use of the pen and rubber bands.
Makiage
A dynamic circular pattern requiring the use of the pen, rubber bands and sewing kit.
The Dyeing Process
Once you're done with preparing the bag with one of the above patterns you can proceed on to the next step of dyeing:
Shibori artisan working for the Takeda family
Masters of Shibori: Takeda Kahei

Meet the Takedas. Starting with Shokuro Takeda in 1608, this family has continued to represent the Shibori textile industry in Japan for over 400 years.

In addition to widening the span of Shibori domestically through hosting a Shibori Festival every June and collaborating with designers such as Issey Mikaye, their overseas outreach has also been expansive. Opening exhibitions, galleries and winning awards in New York, Paris, Chicago, Luxembourg, Frankfurt and Australia, the Takeda family lineage continues to be a trailblazer in the industry while preserving the authenticity of Japanese handwork.

Generation
8th
Craft
Shibori Textiles
Location
Arimatsu, Nagoya
Forest of evergreen trees
Photo by Yuya Hoshino
Our approach to sustainability

The Japanese way of keeping in harmony with the seasons and the local environment will always be at our core. That’s why Pieces of Japan is committed to prioritizing the sustainability of craftsmen and the natural resources that support them.

We believe that in sharing beautiful, durable, handmade products that last for generations, we can take steps away from our current throwaway culture to create meaningful connections with the things we own.