It was an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to look inside the factory where wax is removed, dyes are set and kimonos are cleaned. An industry renowned for its secrecy, such companies are just now starting to open their doors in an effort to educate the public to the process--an art in its own right.
1. In order to be cleaned, kimonos much first be completely taken apart!
2. The fabric runs through this hot machine,
3. ...and the wax drips out from here.
4. Wax is then completely removed with gasoline, of all things!!! Unlike the wax removal process used in Malaysia and Thailand, the colors are not boiled out with the hot water.
5. Dye colors are fixed in these two huge rooms.
6. Two huge rolls of fabric, fresh out of the oven!
7. Each roll can hold five kimonos at a time, no small feat!
8. Silk is then washed in cold, pristine ground water. The quality of the water here is VERY important.
9. Finally, the finished fabric is hung to dry.
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