OP-04C

Nasi is a part of the silk that Indian wild silkworms, or tasar silkworms, produce when they hang from a tree. This original fabric is woven in a plain weave using thread spun from nasi at the only silk spun factory in Japan in Shiga, and unrefined fine-count raw silk as the warp. The off-white colour is an undyed colour. Although it is not used here, please refer to the article by Maki Textile Studio, which provides detailed information about hand-spun nasi thread in India. Both the nasi weft and the raw-silk warp are stronger than ordinary lustrous silk. The firm, crisp hand of the cloth softens with repeated daily wear, changing much like denim. Because nasi thread is as strong as wool, it keeps its resilience through repeated use and does not lose its shape. The pattern uses straight lines throughout, apart from the neckline and side curves, so it could be cut from a single kimono bolt. The sleeves, lower body, and gussets form complete rectangles. Though flat like a kimono, it becomes three-dimensional once worn, as the bias-cut upper body and back gathers settle naturally against the body. It can also be worn open at the front. Pockets sit at both sides, with a separate waist cord included.