A Resist Dyed Zokin: Plant Forms

ca. early to mid twentieth century
7 1/2" x 12 3/4", 19 cm x 32.5 cm

A zokin is a traditional Japanese dust rag which is usually made from several layers of cotton that have been stitched together.  Zokin, along with diapers, can be considered the last stop in the textile repurposing journey.

This zokin is particularly interesting because it is stitched from about four layers, the topmost being a really graceful pattern of gently swaying and intertwined leaves and small blooms rendered in the katazome or stencil resist method of dyeing.  Please note some discoloration to the resisted or white areas of the cloth.