Dyeing Tenugui Fujiya] Tenugui is a tool to enjoy life in your own way!

わのっと編集部
2025.08.20

Tenugui hand towels have been popular in Japan for a long time. However, there are probably many people who have never used it.

In fact, tenugui towels are full of charms that enrich our housework and childcare.

In this issue, we will introduce tenugui hand towels made by “Some-e Tenugui Fujiya. We will introduce the reason why we insist on handmade work and how to use them ethically.

Three generations in Asakusa! Some-e Tenugui Fujiya

From the official website of Fujiya

We will continue to produce beautiful, clean, and good products, so customers can enjoy our hand towels with their own ideas.

Somen-e Tenugui Fujiya” is a tenugui specialty store that combines a commitment to handmade work and love for its customers. For three generations in Asakusa, craftsmen have been making traditional Japanese goods by hand.

Fujiya’s tenugui are loved by many Kabuki actors and rakugo storytellers.

The charm of tenugui

From the official website of Fujiya, a dyed tenugui towel

What is tenugui used for?
Tenugui is a hard thing to get over.

Some people may think so.

However, even though it is a traditional item, there are no hard and fast rules that you have to follow.

Tenugui can be used for a wide variety of purposes, such as wiping, laying out, wrapping, decorating, and collecting.

You can use it in any way that suits your lifestyle and enjoy it freely. That is the charm of tenugui.

Furthermore, the more you use a tenugui repeatedly, the more familiar it becomes with you.

Every time you use or wash it, the texture and color will change. You can enjoy your own unique deterioration over time. As time goes by, you will grow more and more attached to it.

Even if there are frayed pieces, they can be used for a long time if they are cut and carefully trimmed each time. It can be said to be a very ethical tool.

Timeless Attention to Detail.

We want to do honest work that is as honest as a tenugui towel.

The owner of Fujiya, who makes no compromises at all, is particular about the dyeing process. However, he does not cut corners from the preparation stage.

In the preparation process, the fabric is washed repeatedly in hot water to bring out the color of the dye.

From the official website of Fujiya

Some may think, “Isn’t this a time-consuming and labor-intensive process?” Some may think, “Isn’t it time-consuming and tedious? However, by carefully removing dirt and debris, a beautiful dyed result is achieved.

Then, hand-glued sarashi is dyed by hand.

From the official website of Fujiya, a dyed tenugui towel

Fujiya’s dyeing method is called “Shizome Dyeing”. The vivid dyeing is done by craftsmen who have been trained and experienced in the art of dyeing.

The major difference from machine printing is that there is no reverse side. You can enjoy the unique tints of hand-dyeing.

It takes a lot of labor just to dye one tenugui cloth by hand. It can be said that genuine tenugui is produced because we do not take the easy way out and continue to do the work by hand.

A playful way to enjoy Edo culture and the four seasons

Each of the tenugui designs produced by Fujiya is an original work of art drawn by the store owner. You can only find these designs here.

From the official website of Fujiya

You can feel the four seasons with designs related to flowers and seasonal festivals. Also, you can enjoy Edo culture with the Edo komon pattern or the reprint of “Tenugui Awaase” pattern from 1784.

With just one tenugui towel, you can enjoy Japanese festivals and culture. This is another element that attracts people to use tenugui.

A craftsman’s suggestion! How to arrange a tenugui towel

Tenugui, with its high absorbency and quick-drying properties, is also a versatile tool for daily life.

It gently accompanies you in various household chores and childcare.

For example, how about using them in the following ways?

Wrapping lunch boxes

If you cut the tenugui in half, it will be just the right size to wrap your bento. You may enjoy opening your bento more.

From the official website of Fujiya

Pots and pans grasp

From the official website of Fujiya, a dye-painted tenugui towel

Tenugui hand towels fit just right on the handles of any pots and pans. They help make your everyday cooking more enjoyable.

Luncheon mat

From the official website of Fujiya, a dyed and painted tenugui towel

If laid out as a luncheon mat, it will completely change the atmosphere of your dining table. It will be a nice change of pace.

Tissue case

If you wrap a box of tissues in a tenugui towel, you can use it as a stylish tissue case. If you choose your favorite design, you will feel good about yourself.