Overview:
Produced mainly around the middle part of Japan, in the city of Kanazawa a style of textile was developed around the 1690s. The style was named after the developer that created the textile, Yuzensai Miyazaki. Who at first created yuzen dyeing patterns then later in his life went to Kanazawa and created Kaga. Under Miyazaki’s eyes the textile excelled through the wealth of Kagazawa. Kaga is similar to Kyoto based textiles, but the deeper undertones of the floral patterns and the deeper coloration of the textile sets it apart.
History:
Kaga is a textile that needed a lot of water to accommodate the yuzen method, and the large surplus of silk and hemp to create its stunning beauty. During the middle of the Edo period Miyazaki was taught Kyoto dyeing methods but then later on he created his own method called Kaga. With the difference of colors, and the amount of craftsmanship that was required for such a fabric the textile grew in demand rapidly. The textile was so prominent that it kept growing until its small downfall during World War II. Kaga became a national treasure deemed worthy by the METI in 1975.
Process:
First and the most difficult part of the process is the design process where the artisan needs to incorporate the wearers body, age, and the beauty of Kanazawa. Then the white fabric is cut out and basted which are made out of the highest quality of silk in all of Japan. Then the rough sketch of the design is drawn onto the kimono, where the basted part of the fabric is laid on top of a table and a sketch of the pattern is created using dayflower sap and various brushes to create the intended piece. Then resist paste is applied. Then the color is added to the kimono using various brushes consisting of these five main colors, indigo, khaki, green, dark red purple, and deep red. Then more paste is applied to the kimono on top of the colors. Next, the base color is added to the unpainted parts of the kimono. The garment is then steamed, washed and then the final touches are added to the garment. This whole process takes up to a year to complete.
Photo Credits and sourcing: KogeiJapan, kagayuzen.or.jp, kaname-inn.com
Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CubGdwGsUbr/
The reason why I make these articles is because I am infatuated by the craftsmanship that these Artisans have. Now, everyone wants their stuff instantly, one day shipping, that instant satisfaction. What also drives me to make these posts is the beauty behind "mundane" things.
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