Vintage kimono, when hand dyed or painted, provide a source for stunning, one-of-a-kind textures and colors. Many kimono panels feature embedded designs of rayon or metallic threads which act as a resistant when dye or paint is applied. Light refractions and textures in these high quality fabrics permit you to make breathtakingly unique garments or quilts.
- Highest quality available
- Tastefully designed
- Extremely durable silk
- Easy care; machine wash and dry, cool, gentle cycle.
In addition, we also carry stylish kimono panel friendly garment patterns.
Painting Process
Vintage kimono are primarily silk. However, rayon, cotton, wool or blends also produce beautiful results. The process involves gently picking the kimono apart (fortunately, kimono are hand stitched), then running the resulting panels (in widths of 10 – 14 inches) through a warm water wash cycle to eliminate any soil. The panels are then ready for painting with a transparent textile paint – my preference is Setacolor.
Painted cloth is placed in a hot dryer for one hour to set the color, and then pressed with an iron on the highest setting.
Hand Dyeing Process
This process is accomplished by using Procion dyes and running each dyed batch through at least 5 complete machine wash cycles to rinse out excess color. Generally, my fabrics receive a second dye application to achieve preferred depth and intensity of color. The fun part is opening the dryer and seeing the final results!
Check my Vending Schedule for upcoming opportunities to experience my fabrics up close and personal.