Materials and Techniques

Indigo dyeing is a dyeing technique that uses dye from the indigo plant and has been traditionally practiced in Japan.

The color of indigo dye, which is cold but at the same time has depth and warmth, is called "Japan Blue" in various countries around the world. It is a special color that represents Japan for the Japanese.

The indigo used for indigo dyeing is an annual plant of the genus Knotweed of the Polygonaceae family, and is also known as Tadeai (Tateai) or Aitade (Ai Tate).

Indigo has long been useful as a medicinal plant used for its antipyretic (fever reducing), detoxifying and anti-inflammatory effects, and there are records indicating it was used to treat bite wounds by poisonous creatures during the Edo period.

Indigo dyed fabrics that use genuine indigo have been attracting attention in recent years because of their deodorant, anti-bacterial, UV protection, and insect repellent effects.

[Effect of indigo]

・Keeps insects away

・Suppresses body/sweat odor

・Antibacterial effect that is gentle on atopic dermatitis

・UV protection to prevent sunburn

・Antipyretic / detoxifying / anti-inflammatory effects

If you scratch the bark of an 'urushi' tree, milky white sap will seep out. This is 'urushi' lacquer. It is used as a coloring/paint. 'Urushi' lacquer is a precious gift given by nature.

Characteristics of 'urushi'

⑴ Environmentally friendly, natural coloring/paint

⑵ There is a unique elegance that human-made paints cannot produce. The more you use it, the more glossy it becomes.

(3) Withstands chemicals and high heat, and is water  and rust resistant.

⑷ Antibacterial and durable