A Shirakage Shibori Diaper: Machine Repair

mid twentieth century
21" x 13", 53.5 cm x 33 cm

This shibori dyed, gauzy, lightweight cotton cloth measures, as shown at 21"" or 53.5 cm in length, when in reality as it is twice that since this is a length of cotton that has been stitched as a "tube," short end to short end.

It is a traditional Japanese diaper and is dyed in the shirakage shibori or "white shadow" shibori method.  The shirakage technique as shown here appears a bit weak and blotchy which adds to its charm; the pattern is that of undulating lines called tatewaku in Japanese which is sometimes referred to in English as "rising steam."

The indigo color is of medium tone and is seems to be a synthetic dye.  Please note the small breaks to the cloth and some areas of weakness. As well, note the really lovely mending patch and the blue stitching which holds the shape of this diaper.

Really lovely.