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 involves 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, also known as itagatsuri.Chijimi weaving divides the warp yarns into two groups and applies different tensions during weaving to create a subtle uneven texture on the surface. This prevents the fabric from clinging to the skin and maintains breathability, making it a favored material for summer garments."Soft Chijimi Weave" is characterized by gentler surface texture and a weaving method where kasuri threads are intentionally arranged to interact with the chijimi structure.Also known as"Yukinko Kasuri," this pattern was traditionally woven using handwoven, indigo-dyed warp and weft kasuri. Arare refers to small, finely spaced motifs. Unlike printed designs, kasuri created through tying-and-dyeing produces slight natural variations in each motif even when designed at the same interval. These subtle irregularities, combined with an overall sense of cohesion, give the pattern its charm. Highly versatile, it is suitable for both clothing 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: deep navy - navy/white (katahane) - deep navy