What Is Shibori? Japanese Resist Dyeing and the Arimatsu Tradition

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Patterns made before the dye

Shibori is a Japanese tradition of resist dyeing. Cloth is folded, bound or stitched so that some areas take up dye differently from others. The way the fabric is prepared shapes the finished pattern.

That preparation can produce rings, lines, repeated geometric forms and soft transitions between colour and undyed cloth. Blue and white are familiar shibori colours, but colour alone does not identify a technique or tell you which dye was used.

Shibori and tie dye

In English, “tie dye” is often used as a broad description for cloth that is tied before dyeing. “Shibori” refers to the Japanese tradition, which also includes folded and stitched methods. A textile's pattern, preparation and place of origin give more useful context than its colour alone.

The Arimatsu tradition

Arimatsu, now part of Nagoya, developed along the Tokaido route in the early seventeenth century. Its textiles became souvenirs for travellers. The Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori Museum describes a tradition of binding, sewing and folding techniques that continues today. Explore the museum's introduction to shibori.

Different ways to shape the cloth

  • Binding: sections of cloth are gathered and tied to resist the dye.
  • Stitching: stitches gather the fabric and help control where a pattern appears.
  • Folding and clamping: folded cloth is held between boards to create repeated shapes, as in itajime shibori.

For examples of these techniques, visit the museum's textile guide. A finished pattern can suggest a method, but it is best to check the maker's information before naming the technique used for a particular piece.

Choose a piece for everyday life

Start with how you want to use it. A pleated scarf is a wearable colour accent. A drawstring pouch keeps small items together in a bag. A wall tapestry makes the pattern part of a room.

Our first collection was selected at the Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori Museum in Nagoya. Browse the Arimatsu Shibori collection, or read our ordering and care FAQ before choosing a piece.

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