Katagami are Japanese paper stencils that are used in the process of dyeing textiles. A technique used over 1000 years, these stencils were used primarily for printing decorative patterns on Kimono textiles. Multiple layers of thin washi paper are used to create the stencil. “Washi” is traditional, handmade Japanese paper.
The stencil patterns can be extremely intricate and consequently, fragile. Often a fine silk thread lattice was overlaid on the stencil to hold it in place.
Katazome is the japanese method of dyeing fabrics using a esist paste that is applied through a paper stencil(katagami). A sticky mixture made from rice and bran is forced through the openings in the stencil onto a piece of fabric and allowd to dry. After drying the dye color is applied by brush, then the sticky paste is washed away revealing the exquisite pattern underneath.
Shibori is a Japanese term for dying cloth with a unique design The earliest known examples of Shibor date from the 8th century. It is created by manipulating the fabric prior to dyeing such as binding, stitching, folding, twisting or compressing the fabric. In the west, shibori is associated with what is commonly called “tie-dyeing”.
For the Japanese shibori is a highly refined and precise dyeing method.
