Tenugui Utility Cloth - Tableware

These traditional, hand-dyed cotton cloths are beautiful, versatile, and endlessly useful!

They are made in Japan using the chusen method of stencil dyeing, where dyes are poured onto layered fabric that has been protected with a special glue so that only the stenciled areas are dyed, often in carefully controlled color gradients. The dye is absorbed into the fabric so that you can see the pattern on both sides, making the cloth reversible. This technique is a manual and highly skilled process, handled by craftspeople with many years of experience.

The finished product has a soft texture that becomes even softer with repeated washing. The raw, unfinished edge is traditional and will only fray slightly, eventually forming a fringe. Most consider this an attractive feature.

The color of Chusen-dyed tenugui will fade slightly upon washing and colors may bleed slightly. We recommend hand washing for the first 2-3 times of use in lukewarm water without detergent, separate from other laundry. After washing, gently smooth out any wrinkles before drying in the shade.

IDEAS FOR USE:

- handkerchief
- bandana / scarf / headband
- hand, face, or dish towel (more absorbent and faster-drying than traditional towels!)
- napkins (cut in half to make two!)
- table runner / place mat
- wrapping cloth for gifts and other items (similar to furoshiki)
- fabric for sewing projects
- decorative wall hanging (pair with our magnetic hanging frame!)

This 100% cotton tenugui has an abstracted design of colorful shapes that evoke tableware. It measures approx. 33 x 90cm (13 x 35-inches).