Yumihama Ikat

The cultivation of cotton for home use on the sandy soil in the area of Yumigahama in the western part of Tottori Prefecture started in the latter half of the 17th century. When wholesalers of the indigo balls used for dyeing became established in the middle of the 18th century, cotton production for cloth increased. Then at the beginning of the 19th century, the womenfolk on the farms in Yonago and Yumigahama started weaving a picture ikat called hamanome-gasuri.

Being a cloth that was first woven to be made up into garments for personal use by farming families, it has a simple and honest quality. While picture ikat techniques are utilized to the full to create patterns associated with everyday life bringing the wearer good luck, good fortune and warding off any evil spirits, the designs are boldly expressed. There are now 11 government recognized Master Craftsmen among the 180 employed by the 7 firms sustaining the making of this cloth that is used for kimono as well as for cushion covers, curtains and bags.