Kaga-nui embroidery, a lavish embroidery using silk, is a long-loved heritage craft from Kanazawa since the 14th century, alongside the arrival of Buddhism. By the 16th century, this same technique was sought after for the military jackets of feudal lords and the kimono of ladies and princesses. Nowadays, it is used in dresses, stoles, accessories, interior designs and other aspect of everyday life.
Kaga-nui embroidery uses a variety of colored silk, gold, and silver threads, all hand-sewn. Techniques like 'niku-ire nui', creating a three-dimensional effect, and 'bokashi nui', achieving subtle gradations by changing thread colors, are sure to give this particular variety away.
At ' Kaga-nui embroidery IMAI', the only place in Ishikawa Prefecture inheriting these techniques, you can experience embroidery while shadowing traditional craftsmen. Finished works can be made into keychains, hair ties, or straps on the same day, becoming a unique treasure you may never forget.
Highlights
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Only place in Kanazawa where you can experience the beautiful, heritage craft of Kaga-nui embroidery.
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Studio doubles as a museum space, displaying a variety of Kaga-nui embroidery pieces.
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Lose yourself in the minute details of sewing beautiful silk threads, stitch by stitch.