Kamawanu Tenugui – Hemp Leaves Red “Asa-no-ha” | Traditional Japanese Hand Towel | Home Decor

Hemp leaves (Asa no ha)

As this geometric pattern looks like hemp leaves, people started calling the pattern hemp leaves. As hemp trees grow very quickly and strongly, to share the luck of the asa no ha this pattern was often used for babies’ clothes.

 

30 x 90cm / 100% cotton / hand-dyed with Japanese traditional dying technique “chusen”

The rich world of tenugui : The Japanese textile form of the tenugui has a rich and textured history that weaves together art and commercial uses. Still handcrafted by artisans in Tokyo shitamachi (old downtown), its versatility and affordability ensure it continues to evolve in exciting new ways even today.

Everyday art — versatile & practical : Tenugui are used for a multitude of purposes, from hand towel to headwear, bandage to business card, place mat to wall hanging. As every tenugui is handmade, each is unique. Their individual appeal grows with repeated use and washing, as the cloth softens and the dyes take on a well-used patina—natural qualities which we love here at CIBI.

Caring for your tenugui

While the long sides of the tenugui are finished selvages, the short ends are unfinished and will fray around 3 to 5mm. Just trim off the loose threads and the fraying will soon stop.

It is best to hand wash them in cool water without detergent. With each washing the tenugui will soften to become your own personal tenugui.

Caution: As all our tenugui are hand-dyed, some colours may run. Wash separate from white items.