About Kyoto Craftsmanship
Fabrication process
The art of making Nishijin's gold brocade has been passed down
from father to son for generations.
The technique for weaving the patterns with dyed thread is
one of its signature features, and requires several work phases to complete.
About the fabrication process
It takes one day for even a skilled craftsman to weave just a 30cm stretch of the intricate and complexly patterned Nishijin brocade. Weaving 10 meters of it takes a considerable amount of time and effort.
The fabrication process is divided into several parts according to the type of specialist required for it. A high level of skill and deeply ingrained knowledge is required for each part of the process.
About the fabrication process
It takes one day for even a skilled craftsman to weave just a 30cm stretch of the intricate and complexly patterned Nishijin brocade. Weaving 10 meters of it takes a considerable amount of time and effort.
Preparation of raw material
Based on a drawing drafted by the designer, a pattern design which acts as the blueprint for the entire fabric is made. Following that, work instructions on how each artisan should use the loom are drafted for everybody involved.
Preparation of the loom and the weaving process
The artisan sets up the heddle that raises and lowers the longitudinal threads. Reeds, shuttles and other necessary articles are also prepared.
The actual weaving process can either be conducted by an artisan on a hand loom, or done on a power loom. The transverse and longitudinal strings set up during the preparation phase are strung on the machine, and the transverse strings are passed to and fro between the alternately raised and lowered longitudinal strings to create the textile weave (pattern) specified in the design drawing.
