Craftsmanship

Traditional Indigo Pour Dyeing

The chusen dyeing technique, developed in the Meiji era, evolved as a method that used synthetic dyes and was valued for its efficiency in mass production.
It became widely used in making yukata (summer kimono) and tenugui (Japanese hand towels).

At so-i, however, we use only natural indigo—no synthetic dyes—to carry out the chusen process.
We dye fabrics for clothing and tapestries by pouring indigo onto patterned cloth using a special kettle-like tool called a yakan.

With Hon-Ai Chusen (natural indigo pour dyeing), the depth and variation of indigo shades naturally blend, allowing for soft gradations and beautiful, organic blurring effects.

Weaving by Hand

We spin cotton and wool into yarn, and dye it with natural indigo.

Using undyed yarn that retains its natural color, indigo-dyed yarn, and cotton grown in our own fields,
we weave fabric with great care—preserving the unique texture and character of each material.

Crafting Clothing

At so-i, we create gentle, seasonal garments using natural materials—plant- and animal-based fibers dyed with indigo.

Each piece is carefully crafted, one by one, with time and care: from everyday wear to hand-stitched skirts and haori jackets.
Our aim is to offer clothing that feels natural on the body and fits seamlessly into daily life.