[Kyoto Yuzen: Interview with Ando Senko, Part 1] Our pride is in the gorgeousness

──First, please tell us about Ando Senko's dyeing techniques.

We dye using a technique called "kata-yuzen."

It is a method of dyeing using stencils, and one of these is called "Itaba Yuzen."

The fabric is pasted onto a board that is the right width for the roll of fabric, and then color is sprayed on using an airbrush or similar.

This technique was developed in the early Showa period, and was used by most dye shops in Kyoto at the time.

With the advent of inkjet printers, few companies continue to use this method.

*Airbrush dyeing

──When I think of Kata-Yuzen, I get the impression that it is a delicate and precise process.

That's right. If the pattern is even slightly off, it won't be usable.

Even a misalignment of just 0.5 mm can cause the patterns to not match, so there's always a sense of tension.

However, it is precisely because of the delicate techniques required to dye the fabric without any discrepancies that the finished kimono is so beautiful.

*Katagami (patterns) that are stored

──What are Ando Senko's unique strengths?

We have been making furisode for a long time, so we are good at creating gorgeous dyed and woven fabrics.

Anyway, I'm confident in the "glamour".

After all, furisode is for the happy days of life.

I am always thinking about how to express elegance within splendor.

──Why are you so particular about glamour?

After all, it's important that people who see it think it's beautiful.

We sometimes receive awards, but if you want to win an award, it would be easier to create a design that appeals to everyone, but the truth is that you won't win that way.

It needs to have an impact, or rather, a unique character.

It's important to express our individuality.

──I've heard that you've received many awards. Is there any that left a lasting impression on you?

I agree.

What made me happiest was that I was able to win an award that would normally be awarded to hand-painted Yuzen works, using the kata-yuzen technique.

The award was won for a furisode, but in fact tomesode and houmongi are more likely to receive recognition.

Therefore, it was truly rare for someone to win an award in a kata-yuzen style and furisode.

It was truly moving to see that not only our skills but also the potential of Kata-Yuzen was recognized.

*Actual award certificate

──Even though you've been doing this for a long time, you continue to hone your skills.

Yes. It may sound extreme, but if we do nothing, we will lose our jobs.

I attend Coming of Age Ceremonies every year and am always conscious of trends.

You need to be sensitive to the nuances of society, such as "what colors and patterns are in demand right now."

Traditional crafts are often thought of as something that never changes, but I believe that it is actually a world that must keep changing.

The second part will be released tomorrow.