A Needlework or Shibori Tying Stand: Hinged Wooden Stand

ca. mid twentieth century
open: 19" x 13 1/4" x 2", 48.25 cm x 33.5 cm x 5 cm

This is a simple, hinged, wooden device from old Japan, one which was used for needlework or shibori dyeing, and sometimes referred to as a yokobiki dai.

On the tall extension of the device, a small hole is bored through the wood.  Through this a string would be pulled and onto the string some kind of clip would be attached to hold tight a section of cloth which would be clipped into it.  The cloth would be worked in whatever fashion was dictated by technique. 

In shibori-making manuals we see this same device rigged with hook that will pinch a small area of cloth so it can be pulled tight to be wound by thread to create whatever shape resist dyed pattern was being worked on.

As can be seen, the yokobiki dai folds back onto itself into a very flat form.

The wood is grained and is the color of walnut, however not knowing Japanese woods well, it is likely not walnut but another, indigenous variety.

This hinged stand shows wear from use.