Kurume Kasuri is woven on retro belt-driven power looms from the Showa era, with twenty looms operating from a single motor. Founded in 1948, the mill continues to produce one of Japan's most representative yarn-dyed textiles. The fabric is known for its soft, handwoven-like texture. Because many processes are done manually, production requires more than thirty steps and takes two to four months to complete. This textile is ideal for those who wish to create special pieces rooted in traditional Japanese craftsmanship.This fabric features tatekatsuri, a kasuri pattern expressed solely through the warp yarns. It is also known as itagatsuri.Chijimi weaving divides the warp yarns into two groups and applies different tensions during weaving, creating a subtle unevenness on the fabric surface. This prevents the cloth from clinging to the skin and allows air to circulate, making it a favored material for summer garments.Also called"Yukinko Kasuri," this pattern was traditionally woven using handwoven indigo-dyed warp and weft kasuri. Arare refers to small, finely spaced motifs. Unlike printed patterns, kasuri created with the tying-and-dyeing technique results in slight natural variations in each motif, even when designed at the same interval. These subtle irregularities, combined with the overall harmony of the layout, create a visually engaging pattern. Versatile and adaptable, it works well for both garments and accessories.Fabric thickness: standard + soft Warp yarn: 40/2 Weft yarn: 20/1 Chemical dye 100% Finished with hot-water washing and sun drying, shrinking the fabric by about 10%. Ready to cut and sew immediately after purchase. Color: Purple 1393 - Purple/White (double-hash) - Purple 1393 - Black