What is Japanese tenugui? Reason why we chose Nijiyura tenugui.
Many of you already know that we stock beautiful Nijiyura tenugui. However, some of you may be new to tenugui. These traditional Japanese hand towels have been a staple in Japanese culture for centuries. But what exactly is a tenugui, and why should you consider choosing Nijiyura’s? Let’s dive into the world of Japanese textiles and explore what makes Nijiyura tenugui so special.
What is Japanese Tenugui?
Tenugui is a type of traditional Japanese hand towel that is not only practical but also holds cultural significance. Made from lightweight cotton, tenugui is known for its versatility and absorbency. These towels are commonly used in various settings, from everyday household tasks to traditional ceremonies and festivals.
Why Choose Nijiyura Tenugui?
When it comes to selecting tenugui, Nijiyura stands out for several reasons. Nijiyura tenugui is crafted with the highest quality cotton, ensuring durability and softness. We also love their method, Chusen (注染).
Chusen (注染) is a traditional Japanese dyeing technique in which dye is literally poured onto the fabric—hence the name, which means "pour dyeing." This method originated in Osaka during the Meiji period and allows artisans to dye 20 to 30 pieces of fabric at once.
The process involves folding the fabric like an accordion and dyeing it from both the front and the back. As a result, the colour penetrates beautifully and evenly on both sides, with no front or back distinction.
Chusen dyeing includes many intricate steps, all of which are done by hand by skilled artisans. This means that no two pieces are ever exactly the same. The subtle blurs, delicate gradients, and soft textures that emerge through this manual process are what make Chusen truly unique and captivating.
Experience the Beauty of Nijiyura Tenugui
By choosing Nijiyura tenugui, you are not only investing in a high-quality Japanese textile but also supporting a brand that values tradition and artistry. Whether you are a collector of Japanese textiles or simply appreciate the beauty of traditional craftsmanship, Nijiyura tenugui is a must-have addition to your collection.
Explore the world of Japanese tenugui with Nijiyura and experience the beauty and functionality of these timeless hand towels. Embrace the artistry and heritage of Japan with Nijiyura tenugui in your home.
Here are Some Pictures from Our Visit
To control the flow of dye and keep it from reaching areas that should stay blank, artisans carefully apply rice paste to form protective barriers
Once the barriers are in place, dye is gently poured into the enclosed areas using a traditional watering can known as a dohin, allowing for precise and controlled colour application. A vacuum tank is used to ensure that the dye penetrates the fabric evenly and efficiently. While the dye is being applied from above, air is gently pulled from below using a pump. This suction helps draw the dye through the fibers without compressing the weave, allowing the fabric to retain its natural softness and smooth texture.
Once the fabric has been thoroughly washed, it goes through a spinner to remove excess water. To preserve the vibrancy of the colors, it is then dried right away. Traditionally, this was done under the sun, but today, drying takes place in a specially designed room that mimics natural sunlight, ensuring a consistent and colour-safe finish.
We feel truly honoured to carry Nijiyura’s beautiful tenugui, and we sincerely hope that many people here in the UK will have the chance to experience their charm and craftsmanship first-hand.