Tsumami-zaiku
a traditional Japanese fabric-folding craft called tsumami zaiku
It is a traditional craft called tsumami zaiku, a type of “pinching craft” made using 1.5 cm square pieces of fabric. A small piece of fabric is folded like origami to create a decorative ornament. The only tools needed are tweezers and glue.
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Tsumami Zaiku (つまみ細工) is a traditional Japanese craft that involves creating delicate ornaments from small squares of fabric, traditionally silk. Each square is carefully folded, much like origami, to form flower petals and other decorative motifs. These pieces are often used to adorn hair accessories, particularly kanzashi, which are worn for traditional ceremonies and festivals.
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Tsumami Zaiku requires great patience and meticulous craftsmanship. There are two main techniques: maru-tsumami, which creates rounded shapes, and ken-tsumami, which creates pointed shapes. Today, this traditional craft is also used to create contemporary items such as jewelry and decorative objects.
Techniques
Maru-tsumami
rounded petal folding
Ken-tsumami
pointed petal folding
Combination of folding techniques
Components for Traditional Hair Accessories
Combination of folding techniques
Components for Traditional Hair Accessories for Children
Kumi-age
Assembling the components
Combinaison of techniques
Assembling the components
Discover the craftsmanship
Each piece is carefully made by skilled artisans using techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Watch the video to discover how Tsumami-zaiku is made and meet the craftsman behind this work.
Video: Courtesy of Ichirindo. Published with permission.
The craftwork featured in this video is displayed at Asakusa View Horel.
Tsumami-zaiku Workshop in Your Place
We organize workshops for groups of 8 to 10 people. Please contact us for more information.