Oshima Tsumugi boasts a 1,300-year tradition as one of the world’s three great textiles. Its exquisite patterns are created by aligning dyed warp and weft threads with pinpoint precision—a feat impossible for machines. A key part of this craft is Mud Dyeing.
Mud Dyeing represents the colors of the Earth. Inspired by nature's blessings, we are committed to protecting our environment and passing this cherished tradition down to future generations.
The fabric is first dyed with tannin extracted from Teichigi, then reacted with iron-rich mud. This cycle is repeated nearly 80 times to achieve its rich black color. Grown in Amami's coastal environment, 10+ year-old trees contain high concentrations of tannin. About 600 kg of wood chips are boiled for over 16 hours, then naturally fermented for 10 days to complete the dye.
Threads are dyed by hand at room temperature, gradually turning brown through repeated applications. Artisans work without gloves to feel the fabric and gauge color absorption. Lime water is added as a natural binder, neutralizing the mixture and fixing the tannin securely to the fibers.
Brown threads dyed with Teichigi wood are kneaded by foot into iron-rich mud fields. The fine, microbe-active mud allows iron to combine with tannin, transforming the threads into a deep black while making the fabric soft and supple. Repeating the Teichigi and mud dyeing cycle 3 to 4 times achieves Oshima Tsumugi’s signature black color.
