December 2024, Shiwasu Yawame (Gentle)

Hello, this is Chihana Mizobe from Whole Love Kyoto. The third issue of Yomoyama Stories is here! Boss Sakai is in charge of the Katame (In-depth), while I am handling the Yawame (Gentle).

In mid-November, the cold suddenly arrived, prompting a rushed wardrobe change. It felt like winter had skipped right over autumn.

Whole Love Kyoto’s shop faces Higashi Kuramaguchi Street, which happens to be part of a baked sweet potato vendor’s route (usually between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM). This year, the vendor didn’t appear in November, leaving us wondering, “When will they come?” Finally, just before December, they resumed their rounds.

In the mornings, I wake up to the kerosene vendor’s tune, “Yuki ya Konkon,” and in the evenings, I hear the baked sweet potato vendor’s song. While the cold persists, these moments bring a peculiar sense of luck and comfort.

Do You Have Sleeping Kimono at Home?

The fabric used for the HANAO SHOES straps is sourced directly from artisans whenever possible. We’re currently exploring Kyoto’s traditional dyeing and weaving techniques. So far, we’ve collaborated with artisans like Enami (Sanadahimo, Kiyomizu-Gojo), Okaju (Haura linings, Kawaramachi-Sanjo), and Iwai Senko (katazome stencil dyeing, near Nijo Castle). Now, we’re visiting workshops specializing in hand-painting and finishing.

Each Kyoto workshop excels in different patterns, colors, and materials, making it fascinating to see them all displayed together.

One day, while admiring the colorful straps, a customer—a distinguished lady—asked, “I have a few kimono stored at home. Could you turn them into straps for me?”

Later, when I visited her home, ten kimono were laid out on the tatami mat. She shared fond memories associated with each piece.

With just a 10 cm x 50 cm piece of fabric, we can craft straps for one pair of sandals. If you have kimono, obi, or fabric that you’d like to transform into HANAO SHOES or zori straps, feel free to contact us. We will handle them with care, along with your stories, and create something new. (Please note that some materials may not be suitable for crafting straps due to their nature or durability.)

[Contact: 075-744-6152 / wlk@chimaski.jp]