Kurume Kasuri is woven on retro belt-driven power looms from the Showa era, with twenty looms operated by a single motor. Founded in 1948, the mill continues to produce one of Japan's most iconic 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. It is an ideal material for those who want 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, creating subtle unevenness on the fabric surface. This prevents the fabric from clinging to the skin with sweat and allows airflow between the fabric and the body, making it a long-loved material for summer garments.Yoroke stripes are wavy, curved stripe patterns. While they can be created through techniques such as bending the yarns themselves or by printing, Shimogawa Orimono uniquely expresses them using kasuri's characteristic"kukuri" tying method. The"Yoroke Stripe," born from approaching traditional techniques with a fresh perspective, symbolizes renewal, transformation, and innovation.Fabric thickness: standard Warp yarn: 40/2 Weft yarn: 16/1 Chemical dye 100% Cotton 100% Woven width: approx. 37 - 38 cm Hot-water pre-shrunk and sun-dried (approx. 10% shrinkage), ready for cutting and sewing immediately after purchase. Color: 8A, 8A Yoroke Navy 8A, Sigma 8A
