Tenugui Indigo - Mikiage Shibori

A Tenugui is a Japanese decorative towel made from a light cotton. Traditionally used as a sling to wrap and carry bento boxes and drink bottles. They can  also used as headbands, neck chiefs or as hand towels.

Since the ancient times, indigo-dyed garments have been known for their insect-repellent, deodorant and antibacterial properties, which the Japanese people also took advantage of in their daily lives. 

OW artisans Naoko and Kota Omae create clothing to show the world the beauty of Indigo as well as its functional aspects. With a mission to reintroduce natural indigo-dyed products into our lifestyle, their artistry is also about appreciating the hidden powers of plants and connecting with the environment.

Using only composed indigo leaves combined with lime, sake and wheat bran, these natural indigo-dying techniques have been passed down through the ages. The rich colour and shibori patterns result from the almost meditative act of repeatedly dipping the fabric in and out of the dye, gradually transforming into the rich deep blues.