Although it looks simple, we created a top that is packed with the craftsmanship and attention to detail of a master craftsman. This top is made using 100% wool yarn. Wool is often thought of as a winter material, but it is actually excellent at absorbing and releasing moisture, so much so that it is called a "natural air conditioner." So, depending on how you use it, it is also suitable for spring and summer. This time, we visited Tsuyakin Co., Ltd., which processes and dyes this wool yarn with bandera, and talked to them about all sorts of things.
Tsuyakin has a factory in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, and was founded in 1889. This year marks the 137th anniversary of this long-established company. The bandera treatment we will be using this time is a process that reduces wool's tendency to felt (shrink). It gives the fabric a smooth, soft texture and a glossy finish, while also reducing itchiness and pilling. Because it's shrink-resistant, it can even be laundered at home! Tsuyakin will be performing the washing, bandera treatment, dyeing, and finishing steps. We asked which steps are the most difficult. Apparently, the most difficult parts of wool are the dyeing and finishing. No matter how much wool is washed, it never becomes pure white; the whiteness and fiber thickness vary depending on the region and year of origin. Therefore, dyeing it to the same color requires considerable adjustment and experience. Furthermore, the finishing process for loosely knitted, stretchy fabrics like this one requires a lot of skill. According to Miwa, who has been in the business for 40 years, finishing fabric with Bandera processing is difficult, and straightening the cross grain, a process known as "yoritori," is particularly challenging. Thanks to the efforts and hard work of many people, including Miwa, this non-itchy 100% wool top has been completed. Please try it out and experience the craftsmanship of the artisans.