A Square-Shaped Zokin or Dustrag: Figured Side

early to mid twentieth century
12" x 13", 30.5 cm x 33 cm

A zokin is a traditional Japanese dustrag which is hand stitched using repurporsed cloth.  Zokin were often made in groups, so very often you will find batches of similar types coming from one home.

This  zokin is stitched from about layers of recycled cotton: one side is of figured cloth while the other side is of a dull-toned blue/purple. Both cottons are machine loomed. 

The sashiko stitching is done in white thread and it is stitched in a nice looking grid pattern.

This is a very handsome old, traditional dust rag with the bonus of showing a traditional sashiko stitching technique which is done is a rustic and beautiful manner.