Chusen Hand Dyed Tenugui

Tenugui are traditional Japanese thin cotton towels that have been used since 300 AD-- basically since forever. They dry quickly, come in an incredible array of designs, and are highly versatile. They were used by samurai to absorb sweat underneath their heavy kabutos (head armor) or to wrap their sharp katanas. They quickly then spread to become fashion pieces, from head wraps to Kabuki actors and sumo wrestlers making their original designs to hand out in lieu of business cards. In modern times people use them as eco-conscious gift wrap or even tissue box coverings. 

At Bernal Cutlery we have chosen a tenugui company that uses a traditional stencil hand-dyeing technique called Chusen--in this method, dyes are poured onto the layered fabric, which has been protected with a special glue so that only the stenciled areas are dyed to imprint the intended patterns. The finished fabric is dyed in the same pattern on both sides, featuring a soft texture and distinctive colors.

Care instructions:

With each use the cloth becomes softer and improves its water absorbency. The ends of the tenugui are not sewn, which makes it harder for germs to collect at the ends, and dries faster. You will notice that the ends will become frayed as you use them, but this is to be expected and adds "aji" or flavor. Simply cut the frayed strings, and you will notice that after a few washings it will stop fraying. As they are hand-dyed, the first several times you wash it they may bleed color. Therefore the first few times you wash it, wash without any detergent and hand wash in luke warm water. Gently squeeze out the water and dry in shade. 

35x90cm 

Cotton

Product of Japan.