Fabric Zori Maker
ぬのじぞうりせいぞうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Fabric zori makers are artisans who produce traditional Japanese sandals known as zori using fabric. They are specialists who manually perform tasks such as cutting fabric, shaping sole materials, attaching thongs, and more.
Description
Fabric zori makers are artisans who manufacture zori, traditional Japanese sandals, using fabric as the material. Based on traditional techniques, they manually handle processes from cutting fabric, forming insoles and soles, making and attaching thongs, to finishing. They require high manual dexterity and meticulous sewing skills, and can handle small-lot custom orders or made-to-order production. To achieve both beauty and durability in the finished products, they carefully work from material selection to detailed finishing.
Future Outlook
Due to declining birthrates, aging population, and challenges in inheriting traditional techniques, the number of artisans is decreasing. While certain demand is maintained by tourism and the resurgence of interest in Japanese clothing, the key to the industry's future lies in advanced technique inheritance and successor training.
Personality Traits
Dexterous hands and skilled at detailed work / Excellent aesthetic sense / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Freelance / Individual Workshop / Made-to-Order Production / Membership in Traditional Crafts Association / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice (Disciple) → Artisan (Workshop Staff) → Independent Business (Individual Workshop Management) → Traditional Craftsman Certification → Class Instructor / Successor Training
Required Skills
Basic Tool Operation / Cutting Skills / Hand Sewing Skills / Sole Shaping Skills / Thong Attachment Skills
Recommended Skills
Color Sense / Customer Service Skills / Knowledge of Traditional Manufacturing Methods / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High precision is required in detailed sewing and assembly. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is needed for long hours of standing work and detailed manual labor. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Calculations are minimal, only to the extent needed for drafting and cutting. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because individual processes are often performed alone. |
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