We have added ten'mari (meaning handmade balls). These balls are suitable for ornaments and interior decorations.
 http://www.nipponcraft.com/index_en_jpy_73.html |
| Ten'mari handmade balls by skillful artisans |
The balls measure approximately 8 to 9cm (3 -3/16" to 3 -9/16"). They are made of raw silk (more accurately "keba" in Japanese, which is fluff or fuzz when Goggle translated) and the designs are hand-stitched by cotton. A silkworm cocoon is embedded inside with a nut, to make a gentle sound when shook. The design motifs come from flower, tree and nature images. Chrysanthemum, sakura (cherry flowers) and Japanese cedar are images of the designs.
There are many kinds of ten'mari and skills in Japan, but these ones are particularly called "Yashu ten'mari". "Yashu" is a historical name of Tochigi prefecture (about 100km north of Tokyo), where these ten'mari are created. The Yashu ten'mari artisans are organized at Utsunomiya city in Tochigi prefecture.
The "Yashu" ten'mari skill was at first developed by an old lady called Harue-san in the city (she is now retired), and has been passed down by the group named "Yashu Ten'mari Sha" with skillful old lady artisans. Tremendous trainings and experiences, plus geometric sense are necessary to become a ten'mari ball artisan.
Please enjoy the traditional spirit and the workwomanship.
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