#Japan #Tokyo #Irotoa #Fureyui Sandals #Wakuwaku Work

A Journey of Touch: The Creation of Fureyui Sandals

In an inspiring collaboration, the inclusive culture brand Irotoa has welcomed Wakuwaku Work, a local workshop for individuals with dual visual and hearing impairments, as an official "irotoanista." The launch of their first product, the Fureyui Sandals, marks a significant step in promoting creativity and inclusivity. As the name suggests, the process of making these sandals revolves around tactile engagement: touching, tearing, weaving, and tying — all of which come together to form a unique pair of sandals.

The Art of Creation

The Fureyui Sandals exemplify the beauty of handmade craftsmanship. Created using upcycled kimono fabrics, each pair is a one-of-a-kind creation that embodies the journey of its maker. The slogan "Unravel, weave, and tie – that leads to steps forward" beautifully captures the essence of this creative process.

The Significance of Touch

Creating the Fureyui Sandals isn’t just about forming a product; it's an insightful journey that emphasizes the connection between the maker and the material. Individuals can engage in the art of touch, feeling the texture of the fabrics, searching for edges, tearing, weaving, and finally tying their creation together. Although it may be challenging at first, every attempt adds to their skill, as hands learn to gauge tension and develop consistent patterns. Incomplete tasks and mistakes become stepping stones toward the final product – a testament to perseverance. Every sandal embodies the steps taken, both physically and metaphorically.

Unique Characteristics

Fureyui Sandals boast several features that enhance both aesthetics and comfort:

• - One-of-a-Kind Beauty: Crafted from upcycled fabrics (silk, cotton, and polyester), showcasing the unique imperfection of handmade items.
• - Comfortable Fit: The three-dimensional weaving conforms to the foot, ensuring comfort whether worn barefoot or with socks, adapting over time.
• - Adjustable Fit: The sandals allow minor adjustments for a customized fit, simply by tightening or loosening the ties.
• - Gentle on Indoor Floors: Designed to minimize damage to surfaces and reduce noise while walking.
• - Sustainable Steps Forward: By utilizing recycled kimonos, Fureyui Sandals are an example of upcycling that contributes to waste reduction and aligns with sustainable development goals.

Understanding Dual Sensory Impairment

Dual sensory impairment presents unique challenges in communication and mobility. Individuals often require interpreters and assistants to ensure their needs are met. In the creation process, each step is broken down into tactile instructions, with careful consideration of material quality, texture, and thickness. As each artisan progresses at their own pace, the act of unraveling, weaving, and tying serves to create not just a product but also a story that defines their experience.

Welcoming Fureyui Sandals into the Community

Founded in 2007 in Yokohama and becoming an NPO in 2013, Wakuwaku Work aims to provide a supportive space for individuals with dual sensory impairments. Their daily activities include creating woven sandals, using braille paper products, and engaging in community interactions. By fostering an environment that acknowledges and embraces these challenges, they establish a productive and enriching space for learning and creation.

The Challenge of Support

Crafting for those with dual sensory impairments poses unique challenges, as traditional instructional formats may not work effectively. Supporters play a crucial role in breaking down tasks, using various hand signs and touch methods to guide each artisan through the process. With patience and encouragement, they celebrate every success and support their peers during difficult times. This dynamic establishes a foundation for completing a pair that symbolizes their perseverance and creativity.

Product Details

• - Name: Fureyui Sandals
• - Materials: Upcycled kimono (silk, cotton, polyester)
• - Sizes: S / M / L (slight variations as each item is unique)
• - Care Instructions: Hand wash, or machine wash using a laundry net. Reshape and dry in shade recommended.
• - Sales Start Date: September 1
• - Availability: Irotoa Collaboration Store in Harajuku and online store (coming soon)

A closing remark from Wakuwaku Work states: “Seeing our creations be recognized as brand products serves as a tremendous encouragement for our users. From our local workshop to Harajuku, each pair is crafted with care.”

Conclusion

The Fureyui Sandals represent not only artistic craftsmanship but also a journey of resilience, connection, and community. By choosing to support and engage with these unique creations, you contribute to a larger conversation about inclusivity and empowerment. As Wakuwaku Work continues to thrive, may more stories like these unfold, reminding us of the beauty found in collaboration and creativity that transcends barriers.