Kimono Seamstress
わふくさいほうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A kimono seamstress is an artisan who uses traditional techniques to measure, cut, sew, and finish kimonos. It is a manufacturing occupation that requires meticulous handwork and advanced skills.
Description
Kimono seamstresses handle tasks from measuring kimono dimensions, cutting fabric, sewing by hand or sewing machine, to finishing processes such as alterations, lining and collar attachment. They may also perform pattern matching adjusted to fabric characteristics and patterns, crease adjustments, and decorative work like embroidery and gold leaf application. They respond to custom-made production and remake services based on customer requests, and typically work at kimono shops or ateliers, or operate their own workshops. It is a specialized occupation requiring the inheritance of traditional techniques and precise handwork.
Future Outlook
While steady demand is expected due to high-end Japanese attire needs and traditional craft preservation policies, successor shortages pose a challenge. Job field expansion is anticipated through new market development such as tourist-oriented services and remakes.
Personality Traits
Cooperative / Excellent aesthetic sense / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Atelier employment / Freelance / Kimono shop partnership / Own workshop
Career Path
Apprentice → Japanese Dressmaking Artisan → First-Class Japanese Dressmaking Technician → Workshop Manager → Independent/Self-Employed
Required Skills
Hand Sewing Technique / Japanese Dressmaking Technique / Measurement and Adjustment Technique / Sewing Machine Operation
Recommended Skills
Customer Service Skills / Embroidery Decoration Technique / Kimono Dressing / Pattern Design
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because precision is required for fine sewing and pattern matching. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because stamina is needed for long hours of handwork and handling heavy fabric bolts. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because advanced mathematical analysis is unnecessary, mainly limited to dimension measurement. |
Related Qualifications
- Apparel Production Technician
- Japanese Dressmaking Technician (National Qualification)
Aliases
- Kimono Seamstress
- Kimono Tailor
Related Jobs
- Japanese Dressmaker
- Tailor
- Western Seamstress