From Kyoto: Hikizome Dyeing in Shiga with Guide
- Immerse yourself in the world of Kyoto’s artisanal textile traditions
- Learn about the history and artistry of hiki-zome, a rare dyeing technique
- Apply vivid pigments with your own brush under the guidance of an artisan
- Create a unique textile piece to take home, experimenting with colors
What to expect
Step into Kyoto’s artisanal traditions through hikizome, a rare dyeing technique that brings vibrant life to kimono fabrics. Unlike machine dyeing, it depends on the craftsman’s hands, eyes, and intuition. Silk is stretched on wooden frames and brushed with color in smooth strokes, creating either uniform shades or soft gradations. The process includes fabric preparation, brush dyeing, steaming, washing, and sun-drying. While the artisan finishes delicate steps, you’ll take part in the most exciting stage: laying down color with your own brush. Guided by a Kyoto artisan, apply pigments, learn the history of hikizome, and create a textile to take home. Meditative yet challenging, this offers insight into kimono artistry and a one-of-a-kind souvenir found in only a few workshops.
