Collection: Matsueda Family

Sayoko/Takahiro Matsueda | 松枝小夜子/崇弘

Tanushimaru, Kurume, Fukuoka

The Matsueda Family and the Craft of Kurume Kasuri & Indigo Dyeing
Kurume Kasuri is a traditional textile from the Chikugo region of southern Fukuoka Prefecture, designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. It originated in the early 19th century, reportedly discovered by a 12-year-old girl named Den Inoue. Known for its intricate patterns created through a pre-dyed ikat technique, Kurume Kasuri is a labor-intensive craft that produces fabric rich in depth and character.

The Matsueda family has been preserving this heritage for generations. As traditional keepers of Kurume Kasuri craftsmanship, they carry on the methods of hand-dyeing and hand-weaving, producing textiles one bolt at a time with care and dedication. At their atelier, every step—from dyeing to weaving—is done by hand, giving each piece a unique warmth and expression.

Key Techniques of Kurume Kasuri

Pre-dyeing (Ikat) Technique

The design is created by tying off specific areas of the yarn to resist the dye, a process known as kukuri. These bound sections remain white while the rest absorb the indigo, creating a pattern when woven.

Kukuri (Tying) Process

This delicate step involves intricately binding individual threads in precise areas to control the pattern. The technique demands high precision and years of experience.

Natural Indigo Dyeing

The yarn is dyed using fermented natural indigo vats. Repeated immersion and oxidation allow the deep, vibrant indigo color to develop. Interestingly, the more the yarn is dyed, the stronger and more resilient it becomes.

Hand-Weaving

After dyeing, the yarns are carefully aligned so the design emerges accurately as the cloth is woven on traditional Japanese looms. Hand weaving imparts a subtle texture and rhythm that cannot be replicated by machines.

Design Motifs

The patterns often feature geometric shapes, plants, or natural elements, offering a simple yet refined beauty. The fabric gains richness and softness with use over time.

The Value of Matsueda’s Craft

The Matsueda family not only preserves traditional methods but also explores modern expressions of Kasuri through contemporary colors and designs. Their work is a fusion of craftsmanship, sensitivity, and artistry, producing truly one-of-a-kind textiles.
Their practice of natural indigo dyeing reflects a broader philosophy of coexisting with nature and reconnecting with the deeper meaning of clothing. As such, they play a vital role in sustaining the future of regional culture and handcraft traditions in Japan.