How to Make Yukata Fabric

Yukata are basic garments comprising of simple rectangular pattern pieces.

A yukata is a Japanese cotton robe similar to a kimono. Nowadays, you can find yukata in different colors and patterns, but traditionally they were made from indigo-dyed fabric, often bearing simple block prints. They are made from a single bolt of fabric 14 inches wide and 12.5 yards long. This is known as a tan. Printing your own tan can be very satisfying and makes a great gift with a personal touch for those who like to sew.

Things You'll Need

• 13 yards white cotton fabric
• Indigo fabric dye
• Saucer
• Stamp
• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Purchase a stamp with a pattern or image that you would like to replicate on your fabric.

2. Place a small amount of indigo fabric dye into the saucer and practice your stamping technique onto the extra half yard of fabric you purchased.

3. Lay your bolt of fabric on a solid surface and begin stamping it. Take time to consider the repetition of the stamp pattern, since this will give your fabric a more uniform appearance and make cutting the pieces for your yukata easier.

4. Allow the indigo-stamped fabric to dry overnight, according to the instructions on the indigo dye package.

5. Measure the fabric and carefully cut it to the size of a traditional tan of 14 inches wide by 12.5 yards long.

6. Fold the fabric and present it as a gift or cut the six pieces for your yukata: two pieces for the back, two pieces for the front and two sleeves.

References

• "Making Kimono and Japanese Clothes"; Jenni Dobson; 2005

Resources

• "Kimono Fashioning Culture"; Liza Dalby; 2001
• Tanuki House: Instructions for Sewing Yukata