Rō (ro) Weaver
ろおりこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A ro weaver is a craftsman who manufactures rō, a summer Japanese clothing fabric, using hand weaving or machine weaving.
Description
Ro weavers mainly produce rō, an openwork fabric used for summer kimonos and obi sashes. Rō is characterized by a technique that regularly floats the warp and weft threads to create a transparent pattern, and silk threads are commonly used as the material. They operate hand looms or power looms, strictly managing the tension of the warp threads and the uniformity of the weave while weaving. After weaving, they perform finishing processes such as dyeing and scouring, and also handle the reproduction of traditional patterns and proposals for new designs. This is a profession that requires advanced skills and years of experience.
Future Outlook
With the protection of traditional crafts and the growing inbound tourism demand, the demand for high-grade Japanese clothing fabrics remains stable. While efficiency improvements through mechanization and AI looms are progressing, the scarcity value of hand weaving is expected to increase further.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Contract Manufacturing / OEM Manufacturing / Self-employed Freelancer / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Weaver → Ro Weaver (Craftsman) → Lead Weaver → Traditional Craftsman → Workshop Owner
Required Skills
Fabric Characteristics Understanding / Loom Operation and Adjustment Skills / Warp and Weft Management / Warping Machine Operation
Recommended Skills
Color Sense / Dyeing and Finishing Processing Knowledge / Japanese Pattern Design / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To maintain the floating warp threads and uniformity of the weave. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Only to the extent of counting fine threads; no need for advanced mathematical analysis. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Craftsman
Aliases
- Ro Weaving Worker
Related Jobs
- Gauze Weaver
- Power Loom Weaver
- Twill Weaver