Jomon Braided Bags Crafted from Leather Offcuts
At ARTS&SCIENCE, we continue to explore ways of reworking leftover fabric and leather generated in the course of making pieces into different forms. One such example is our bag crafted from leather offcuts using the technique of Jomon braiding, which has long been employed in Japan in the making of everyday tools and objects. This season, we are pleased to offer a wider range of materials and colors than ever before.
The project began with an encounter with the technique of Jomon braiding. Drawn to the braided structure said to date back to the Jomon period, as well as the history of a technique that has given rise to a wide variety of objects, from mats to carrying implements, the idea emerged: what might happen if leather offcuts from the production of bags and small leather goods were woven using this technique? This concept became the starting point for the project.
The process begins by skiving the leather offcuts to an even thickness and treating the flesh side with funori seaweed paste. The leather is then naturally joined together, taking into account differences in thickness and dye between parts of the hide. Through these fine adjustments, it is transformed into exceptionally narrow leather strips of approximately 2 mm width, suitable for Jomon braiding. Cutting leather stably and consistently to such a narrow width and joining it naturally requires a high level of skill. This work was realized through the involvement of craftspeople with many years of experience.
A&S bags employ mojiri-ami, one of the techniques within the tradition of Jomon braiding. Characterized by a structure that resists unraveling, it is both durable and breathable. The bags are further woven using braided leather cords. This uncommon construction reflects the braider’s desire to create an even more beautiful braided pattern.
In addition to the body of the bag, the delicate round handles and final stitching are also crafted as handwork by different craftspeople and staff members. From leather preparation and strip processing to the Jomon braiding itself, handle construction, and final sewing, the bag is completed through the collaboration of multiple craftspeople.
Materials that would otherwise have had no use, and a technique passed down in Japan over generations. These A&S Jomon-braided bags are born from that encounter. They will be introduced at each store from Friday, June 26.
Thin Handle Tote
- MATERIAL
S: Cow leather, Sheep leather
L: Cow leather- SIZE
S: W30cm × H32cm, Handle 29cm
L: W41cm × H39cm, Handle 34cm
*Sizes may vary slightly.- COLOR
S: Camel (PHOTO), Pale pink, Gray, Old rose pink, Lime, Navy, Black, Dark gray, Dark brown, Silver
L: Camel, Black, Dark gray, Dark brown- PRICE
S: ¥125,400 (¥114,000 excl. tax) ~ ¥132,000 (¥120,000 excl. tax)
L: ¥190,300 (¥173,000 excl. tax） ~ ¥198,000 (¥180,000 excl. tax)
*Price varies by material.- STORES
- DELIVERY
June 26
For inquiries, please contact each shop directly or use our contact form.
