Itome Worker (Hand-Drawn Yuzen)
いとめこう（てがきゆうぜん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized artisan who hand-draws outline lines using itome paste in the yuzen dyeing process to perform resist treatment.
Description
The Itome Worker (Hand-Drawn Yuzen) transfers the yuzen dyeing pattern onto silk fabric or similar according to the underdrawing, and hand-draws with a thin tube or brush using itome paste (a mixture of starch paste and sugar, etc.) to form the outline lines of the pattern. After resist dyeing with the outline lines, it connects to processes such as dyeing and insertion yuzen, and finally removes the paste through steaming and washing to express vibrant patterns. Requires advanced manual dexterity and attention to detail, understanding of yuzen patterns, and aesthetic sense.
Future Outlook
While demand for traditional crafts is shrinking, there is need for high-value-added products for overseas markets and tourists, and steady demand is expected from craft tourism and traditional technology preservation efforts.
Personality Traits
Excellent aesthetic sense / Has attention to detail / Patient
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice (Apprenticeship) → Itome Worker Artisan → Workshop Employee → Traditional Craftsman Certification → Independent Business / Workshop Establishment
Required Skills
Fine Brush Operation / Itome Paste Preparation / Manual Dexterity / Underdrawing Transfer Technique / Yuzen Patterns
Recommended Skills
Color Sense / Drawing / Fabric Properties Understanding
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because extremely high attention to detail is required to draw thin lines accurately. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it is necessary to utilize aesthetic sense and express uniqueness in pattern outlines. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Because it centers on sensory work rather than logical thinking. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Because work is basically performed based on the main pattern or instructions. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because manual precision is emphasized over numerical analysis. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly sedentary work, with relatively low physical load even for long hours. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Craftsman
Aliases
- Hand-Drawn Yuzen Itome Worker
- Itome Artisan
Related Jobs
- Dyeing Assistant
- Dyer
- Gold Leaf Artisan
- Stencil Dyer
- Yuzen Artisan