How do I care for Awa Shijira weave?
Hello, I'm Yukiwa!
Is it true that Awa Shijira weaving can be washed?
Awa Shijira is an intangible cultural property of Tokushima Prefecture.
It can be worn as a yukata and is washable! It looks very easy to use.
...So, that's right.
I heard it's washable, but how do you wash it?
For those who feel that way.
We will show you how to wash Awa Shijira weave!
That said, it's nothing too dramatic.
① Hand washing is OK as a rule
If you don't have a basin, that's okay. Fill the sink with cold or lukewarm water and dissolve some mild detergent for delicates in it.
(Personally, I think it's fine without detergent if you can remove sweat.)
Wash quickly by pressing the item and, if you used detergent, rinse it thoroughly.
② Rough basting is recommended to prevent the shape from changing.
Before washing, roughly sew (baste) the rounded parts of the collar and cuffs to prevent them from losing their shape.
...But I've never done it (laughs).
The charm of Awa Shijira is that it can be enjoyed casually.
③ Lightly spin-dry in the washing machine
Wrap the folded kimono in a bath towel, place it in a laundry net and lightly spin dry.
If you only have a large net available, use rubber bands to secure the ends to keep the net from moving around inside.
④ Smooth out any wrinkles and dry in the shade
After dehydration, gently pat to remove wrinkles, reshape and dry in the shade.
If you leave it wet, the color will transfer, so the rule is to dry it immediately!
A wide hanger for bath towels is also useful.
⑤ Use a light iron
Awa Shijira is characterized by its "chijimi" processing.
Do not spray the garment with water, but place a cloth over it and lightly iron it.
Make sure to take advantage of the grained texture when finishing the product.
Summary: Laundry is surprisingly easy, isn't it?
If the water temperature is too high, it may shrink or discolor...
Such failures are also part of experience.
Try lots of different things and gain confidence in taking care of your skin yourself.
▶ Click here for the blog of the actual washing experience
Click here for Awa Shijira woven kimonos
