Gold Leaf Processing Worker (Yuzen)
きんぱくかこうこう（ゆうぜん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Traditional artisan occupation that applies gold leaf to yuzen-dyed textiles, adding gorgeous decorations to high-class kimonos and the like.
Description
The gold leaf processing worker (Yuzen) is an artisan who decorates Japanese clothing products such as kimonos and obis using gold leaf. First, they design the pattern and prepare foil paste to adhere it to the fiber product. They draw the base image with paste on the fabric, affix the gold leaf, brush off excess foil, and press it to fix it in place. After drying and fixation, they remove surplus foil and refine the details using a brush or bamboo skewer, then perform the final finishing. Temperature and humidity control are crucial, requiring delicate handwork and high concentration.
Future Outlook
Due to aging in the traditional crafts field and shortage of successors, demand is limited, but a certain market is expected to be maintained by demand for high-class Japanese clothing and tourism. Technology succession is a challenge.
Personality Traits
Dexterous Hands Skilled in Fine Work / Has Aesthetic Sense / Has Delicacy / High Concentration
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice → Artisan → Workshop Owner → Traditional Crafts Artisan → Master
Required Skills
Brush Operation Technique / Design Sketching / Foil Paste Preparation / Gold Leaf Handling / Yuzen Dyeing Technique
Recommended Skills
Color Sense / Kimono Structure Knowledge / Temperature and Humidity Management Technique / Traditional Crafts Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is necessary when handling small pieces of gold leaf. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because creative ability to design patterns and motifs is required. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Mainly individual work, with little external communication. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Few complex calculations, mainly sensory-based work. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Mainly individual work, with few teamwork elements. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Crafts Artisan
Related Jobs
- Foil Stamping Artisan
- Maki-e Artist
- Yuzen Dyeing Worker