Post by Japan - The Government of Japan

An extraordinary craft has quietly shaped Japan’s textile culture for centuries. 👘 A kimono pattern may begin not on fabric, but in paper—carved by hand with remarkable precision. Ise Katagami, from Suzuka in Mie Prefecture, is a traditional stencil craft used to dye intricate designs onto kimono fabric. Artisans use specialized carving knives to cut delicate patterns into stencil paper made by layering sheets of washi and treating them with persimmon tannin. For centuries, these stencils have made beautiful patterns possible through precise handwork, supporting Japan’s textile heritage from behind the scenes. Today, their design language is finding new life beyond traditional textile dyeing in contemporary interiors, lighting, and other forms of modern design. By adapting this sophisticated handcraft to today’s lifestyles, Ise Katagami is helping keep regional cultural heritage alive, evolving, and sustainable. ✨

Video Content