Kyo-yuzen/Dyed Textiles: Satoshi Furuhashi (Furuhashi Senko)

Kimonos are crafted through a process that includes many steps. What I do is hikizome, or brush dyeing, which is generally used to dye the base colour for kimonos and obis. This technique involves dyeing a length of fabric with brushes after it has been stretched between two posts. Sometimes, I dye white cloth a different color completely evenly from end to end. For other jobs, I might use a technique called bokashi, which gradually transitions from a dark colour to a lighter hue. To create this gradient effect, the fabric is sprayed with water before it is dyed. For some bokashi techniques, a single layer of dye is not enough to penetrate the fabric and thus requires multiple applications. Successfully completing this technique without uneven spots while layering dye in the same area is a chance for an artisan to show off their skills. While there are various types, the techniques I have learned allow me to cater to any kind of bokashi requested. My studio can also create fabrics for items like furisode, furoshiki, and shawls.