Kusakizome reversible placemats & coasters

Somenotsukasa Yoshioka is a textile dyeing atelier based in Kyoto that only uses dyes derived from plants, such as flower petals, stalks, leaves, roots, barks, nuts, and more. Dyed using water drawn from 100 meters below the ground, the textiles have absorbed the warmth and depth of the natural environment.

The atelier is now succeeded by Sarasa Yoshioka, the 6th-generation master dyer, and daughter of Sachio Yoshioka, a renowned natural dyer and textile historian. As the use of chemical dyes and synthetic materials became common practice, Ms. Yoshioka’s father and grandfather started to refer to ancient texts from the 8th to 12th century (Heian period) to revive and preserve not only the colors of that time but also the intangible heritage of dyeing methods.

• Gently wipe off any dirt with a damp cloth and avoid scrubbing. Putting it in the washing machine will wash out the color over time and soften the fabric.
  
• If you prefer to use water, soak the placemat or coaster in a bowl with lukewarm water and a little bit of gentle detergent for a few minutes. After rinsing, place it between two dry towels to absorb the moisture and hang to dry in the shade. Do not wring them to squeeze the water out.
  
• Iron using high temperature and place a dry cloth between the placemat/coaster and the iron.

• Coasters: 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4”)
• Placemats: 32 x 45 cm (17.8 x 12.5”)