A Yukata of Stitched Together Tenugui: Souvenir Hand Towels with Repair Material

mid twentieth century
shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip: 48" x 48", 122 cm x 122 cm

This is a yukata or an unlined, casual cotton kimono that is made entirely of tenugui (traditional hand towels) which are hand stitched together.

As the piece has a noticeable stain on the proper, top left near the collar, a loose tenugui of the same vintage as the yukata is included (see lead photo) which can be used to patch over the stain.

Tenugui are unfinished cotton towels that are often bought as souvenirs at vacation spots or cultural sites, as well they could be offered to customers of a business. Sometimes public service announcements are printed on them, too.

The pleasure in seeing all the tenugui stitched up as a yukata is obvious. The yukata is still wearable and for those who have an interest in mending this garment is a charming thing to tend to.

Just lovely.