Activity
Samurai: Design Your Own Symbol
The imagery on a samurai’s armor expresses that samurai’s identity and source of inspiration or empowerment. Is there an image you connect with most?
Make a (katazome) kimono using this template.
Tools for Making a (Katazome) Kimono
Katazome is a traditional Japanese method of dyeing fabrics using a resist paste applied through a stencil. Pigment is added by hand-painting or immersion in a dye vat. Try designing fun kimono using different patterns and colors. Katazome on thin fabrics shows a pattern through to the back; on thicker or more tightly woven fabrics, the reverse side is a solid color, usually indigo blue for cotton fabrics. Futon covers made from multiple panels of fabric, if the stencils are properly placed and the panels joined carefully, exhibit a pleasing over-all pattern in addition to the elements cut into the stencil.
Worksheet (see “Downloads”)
Stencil paper (substitute with cardboard or waxed paper)
Markers or colored pencils
White cardstock paper
X-acto knife
Scissors
Optional: stencil brush, tempera paint
Draw decorative patterns on stencil paper with pencil (or copy the provided patterns). Using an x-acto knife, carefully cut out the patterns.
Use transitional colors, having one color fade into the next.
Try using multiple stencils and various colors to come up with a creative and beautiful kimono!