This workshop aims to revive and preserve the traditional Japanese backstrap loom, which has been passed down through generations. In recent years, many looms from the collection of ethnologist Mr. Chuzaburō Tanaka, known worldwide for his research on Boro textiles, faced the risk of being discarded. Thanks to the support of researcher Mr. Annma, several of these looms have been entrusted to our studio in Shizuoka. By bringing them back into use, we hope to breathe new life into these tools and contribute to the revival of backstrap loom weaving in Japan. This workshop welcomes everyone, including complete beginners. With careful guidance, you will be able to weave on the same looms once used by women in the Tōhoku region more than 100 years ago. Learning how to warp, weave, and experience the loom’s history firsthand is a truly special opportunity.
Program
① Lecture
The history of backstrap looms in Japan and around the world
Why handweaving continues to matter today
② Practical Weaving
Loom setup: assembling, warping, and winding threads
Weaving practice on restored Tōhoku backstrap looms
Step-by-step instruction to enable independent weaving
Note: Looms may also be transferred to participants who wish to continue weaving (separate costs apply).
Schedule & Fee
Capacity: 4 participants per session Instructor: Tatsuhiko Murai Looms used: 4 restored backstrap looms from Tōhoku
2025
July 25–27 (Special Session)
September 19–21
October 24–26
November 14–16
2026
January 23–25
Venue: Oigawa Kudzu-fu Studio, Kanaya Izumi-cho, Shimada City, Shizuoka, Japan Workshop Fee: ¥88,000 (tax included) Accommodation and meals not included
Daily Timetable
Day 1 10:00 Gathering at Oigawa Kudzu-fu Studio 10:00–10:30 Orientation 10:30–12:00 Introduction to the loom 13:00–17:00 Warping practice Day 2 09:00–11:00 Lecture: Global and Japanese backstrap looms 10:30–12:00 Weaving practice (4 looms) 13:00–17:00 Weaving practice Day 3 09:00–10:00 Lecture: Why do we handweave? 10:00–15:00 Weaving practice 15:00–16:00 Closing session
Accommodation For participants coming from outside the area, we can introduce nearby lodging facilities. Please make your own reservations directly. In the morning, please come to the studio on your own. After the workshop, transportation will be provided from the studio back to the accommodation.
Application
Please fill out the Backstrap Loom Workshop Application Form on our website. (Applications by fax or email are also accepted.)
After receiving your application, we will send you payment details. Please transfer the workshop fee to the designated bank account within one week.
Registration is confirmed once payment has been received.
Workshop details and accommodation information will be sent to you in PDF format.
Workshop participants may apply to receive one of the preserved looms from the Chuzaburō Tanaka Collection. While the loom itself is free of charge, costs for restoration, maintenance, and transportation are required:
Transportation Costs Please note that transportation costs to the delivery location must be covered separately. If you wish to receive a loom, please indicate this when submitting your workshop application. Restoration Since these are old looms, they will be repaired and restored to a usable condition before being handed over. The reed frame, reed, split bamboo, and front beam (cloth beam) will be replaced with new parts.
Cancellation Policy
90 days prior: 100% refund
30 days prior: 80% refund
1 day before: 50% refund
Same day: no refund
Bank transfer and credit card handling fees will be deducted from refunds.
Minimum Number of Participants
Workshops will be held with a minimum of 2 participants. If fewer than 2 people apply, the workshop will be canceled and fees refunded in full (minus bank transfer fees).
EmailOrganizer Oigawa Kudzu-fu Weaving Studio 5-1 Kanaya Izumi-cho, Shimada City, Shizuoka 428-0014, Japan Phone: +81-547-45-4151 Fax: +81-547-74-0115 E-mail: info@kuzufu.net
