#Japan #Kyoto #039LAUNDRY #Tabata Shibori #Japanese Tradition

Bridging Tradition and Modernity: The Unique Collaboration of Tabata Shibori and 039LAUNDRY

In the heart of Kyoto, steeped in history and culture, lies the timeless art of shibori, particularly the creative expression known as Tabata Shibori. This traditional dyeing technique, recognized for its intricate craftsmanship, has found a contemporary partner in 039LAUNDRY, an apparel brand renowned for its commitment to quality and originality. This partnership has birthed a collection of T-shirts that not only showcase the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship but also integrate seamlessly into modern fashion.

From May 7 to May 13, shoppers at Hankyu Umeda Main Store will have the opportunity to explore exclusive items from this collaboration, which includes T-shirts made from American Sea Island cotton and denim that utilizes upcycled materials. Here, the artistry of Tabata Shibori—particularly the hand-twisted patterns skillfully crafted by the master artisan Kazuki Tabata—comes to life, merging age-old techniques with contemporary design.

The Art of Shibori

Shibori encompasses various dyeing techniques, with reports suggesting up to 100 different styles. However, the breadth of techniques one artisan can master in a lifetime is quite limited. Kazuki Tabata, a renowned shibori craftsman, employs methods such as tesuji shibori to create one-of-a-kind patterns that reflect the time, effort, and care invested in each piece. His approach emphasizes quality over quantity, resulting in products that are truly unique and scarce.

Traditionally, the Kyoto Kanoko Shibori technique dictated that dyeing should only be executed on silk. However, Tabata Shibori breaks these boundaries, allowing for dyed materials such as cotton and wool. This open-mindedness in technique has enabled diverse collaborations, highlighting the beautiful artistry of shibori to an expanding global audience, particularly in our visually-driven social media world.

Creating Unique Fashion

The collaboration with 039LAUNDRY's flagship American Sea Island cotton T-shirts showcases this extraordinary shibori technique. Each piece is dyed after the garment has been constructed, which is atypical. Normally, fabric is dyed before garment assembly. This method introduces a charm of irregularity; the thick fabric, seams, and {{unique shapes}} of the heavyweight T-shirts result in a range of colors and patterns that are as dynamic as they are distinctive. No two pieces are identical, making them genuine works of art.

Kazuki Tabata passionately embraces his craft, believing in sharing knowledge and experiences with younger generations. He envisions a future where shibori not only thrives within Japan but gains recognition worldwide. “By keeping no secrets, and being open about our processes, we can create spaces that attract people, fostering community and collaboration,” he says.

Exclusive Availability

The special Tabata Shibori x 039LAUNDRY collaboration is available at the official online store as well as the Popup Store located at Hankyu Umeda Main Store, where visitors can witness firsthand the labor and love infused into each piece of clothing.

• - Popup Store Period: May 7 (Wed) - May 13 (Tue)
• - Location: 8F Men’s Fashion Promotion Space 81, Hankyu Umeda Main Store

About 039LAUNDRY

Established in 2018, 039LAUNDRY is rooted in Kondo Spinning Co., which has been committed to cotton yarn production since 1917. Whether through weaving or sewing, each product at 039LAUNDRY reflects a dedication to quality and craftsmanship, embodying the essence of Japanese manufacturing. The factories at the foot of the Northern Alps serve as a testament to this philosophy, where materials are carefully sourced to create unique products available nowhere else.

• - Brand Website: 039LAUNDRY
• - Online Store: Laundry Online Store
• - Instagram: @039laundry

Customer Inquiries

For questions about the collaboration or products, please reach out to Kondo Spinning Co.

• - Email: [email protected]

Company Overview

Founded in 1917 and led by {Daiyuki Kondo}, Kondo Spinning Co. specializes in spinning, apparel, retail, and real estate businesses, and it continues to innovate with integrity and a commitment to quality that’s deeply tied to Japanese culture and craftsmanship.