Willow Leaves
Motif
An Abstract Study of Foliage
This obi is covered in willow branches, reduced to an almost abstract pattern of long, narrow leaves and hanging forms. The leaves shift between soft green, ivory, rust and muted purple against a navy blue background.
At first glance, some of the ivory shapes almost look like little birds in flight. But looking more closely, they seem to be part of the foliage itself. I love that they sit somewhere between plant and bird, pattern and movement, without being completely obvious.
Willow has long been used in Japanese textile design, particularly in compositions evoking spring, water and the gentle movement of branches in the wind. Here, however, the natural motif has been pushed towards abstraction. The repeated branches create a strong graphic rhythm across the dark silk, with the long, straight leaves overlapping and crossing in different directions.
Textile
Composition: Polyester, Silk & Lamé
Obi type: Fukuro Obi
Previously made in this fabric
Futo Clutch
Or choose your bag design from the original design collection.
In-person workshop in Kyoto
If you are visiting Kyoto and would like to spend some time discovering these fabrics in person, you are welcome to visit my studio.
Together, we will design your bag from A to Z. You will choose your favourite obi and even cut the fabric yourself, selecting the exact part of the motif you love most.
I will then carefully sew and finish your bag and ship it to you once it is complete.
→ Book a studio visit and experience the fabrics with your own eyes