The Charm of Arimatsu Shibori Tenugui – Traditional Craftsmanship and Beauty Passed Down Since the Edo Period
What Makes Arimatsu Shibori Tenugui So Special?
Arimatsu Shibori is a traditional Japanese dyeing craft that originated in the Arimatsu district of Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. Its intricate dyeing techniques and the handcrafted textures created by skilled artisans continue to captivate people even today. Among its many styles, “Sekka Shibori” (a snowflake-like traditional tie-dyeing technique) is especially popular for its delicate patterns that resemble snow crystals, reminiscent of the beauty of cut glass.
A History Dating Back to the Edo Period
The origins of Arimatsu Shibori can be traced back to the early 17th century in the Edo period. It is said that people from Kyushu (a culturally rich region in southern Japan) , who were helping with the construction of Nagoya Castle, brought shibori-dyed clothing that inspired local artisans to create similar patterns on tenugui. Over the centuries, various techniques evolved, and the craft has been passed down to the present day. Arimatsu and its shibori culture were even depicted in ukiyo-e prints by the famous artist Hiroshige Utagawa, showing its deep historical and cultural roots.
Lively scenes of Arimatsu during the Edo period are vividly depicted in traditional ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
Arimatsu is featured in Utagawa Hiroshige’s famous ukiyo-e series, “The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō,” showcasing its historical charm.
The Artistic Technique of Sekka Shibori
Among the many dyeing methods of Arimatsu Shibori, Sekka Shibori stands out for its artistic beauty. White cotton fabric is folded into triangular shapes and clamped between two wooden boards before dyeing. The resulting patterns are complex and geometric, varying depending on how the fabric is folded and how many times it’s dyed. Each piece becomes a one-of-a-kind artwork, impossible to replicate exactly.
Inside the dyeing workshop where Sekka Shibori is created, tools essential to the artisans’ craft are neatly arranged.
Tools used by artisans to create the intricate patterns of Sekka Shibori.
One-of-a-Kind Creations, Crafted by Hand
Every piece of Arimatsu Shibori is handmade by skilled artisans. The process involves careful folding, binding, dyeing, and drying—each step carried out with precision and care. Sekka Shibori, in particular, requires advanced techniques and years of experience. As a result, no two tenugui are ever the same, each one a unique expression of traditional craftsmanship.
Bringing Color and Culture into Your Everyday Life
Arimatsu Shibori tenugui are not only practical but also make excellent gifts or seasonal interior accents. They blend traditional techniques with a modern aesthetic, and can be used as wall art, table runners, gift wrapping, and more. Their soft texture and high absorbency make them perfect for everyday use as well.
Beautifully crafted tenugui – a thoughtful gift for lovers of Japanese textile design.
Its gentle texture, characteristic of shibori, adds to its appeal.
Display them as interior accents to bring elegance to your space.
Browse Our Selection of Arimatsu Shibori Tenugui
At our shop, we offer a curated collection of beautiful Arimatsu Shibori tenugui, available by the meter or in 1m cuts. Why not bring a touch of traditional Japanese beauty into your home or gift it to someone special?
Price: ¥2,750 each (including tax)
