An Indigo Dyed Itajime Dyed Diaper: Grid

early to mid twentieth century
25 1/2" x 12 3/4", 65 cm x 32.5 cm

This loop of soft and lightweight cotton is dyed in the shibori method--and it is a diaper.

This is a typical traditional Japanese diaper; by "loop" we mean that although the dimensions, above, state that this is 25 1/2" or 65 cm long, it is actually twice that length since this cloth is doubled up on itself and hand stitched to form a "loop."

The simple, shibori decoration--a clamped and folded technique called itajime--results in the formation of a beautiful, stark, blue-on-white grid pattern.

If the stitching of this diaper were to be undone, it would make a lovely, casual scarf or home accessory.

Really lovely.