Rush Grass (Igusa) Weaver
いぐさあみこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Artisan who weaves tatami facing using rush grass. Combines traditional hand-weaving techniques with machine operation to manufacture tatami facing for homes and stores.
Description
Rush grass weavers dry and sort harvested rush grass, then weave it strand by strand using handwork or specialized machines to produce tatami facing. They perform the work while maintaining precise intervals and widths of the weaves, and the finished tatami facing is sewn onto the tatami core to complete the tatami mat. While inheriting traditional techniques, some workshops also introduce the latest machinery, managing dimensions and conducting quality inspections to produce uniform products. The work is primarily standing, requiring manual dexterity and physical strength.
Future Outlook
Demand is on a declining trend due to the Westernization of housing rooms and population decline, but steady needs are expected from the preservation of traditional culture, luxury housing markets, and renovation demand, with skill inheritance posing a challenge.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and skilled in detailed work / High Concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Artisan / Factory Employment / Full-time / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Worker → Rush Grass Weaver → Tatami Artisan → Workshop Owner → Traditional Craftsman
Required Skills
Dimension Management / Hand Tool Operation / Hand-weaving Technique / Machine Operation (Tatami Manufacturing) / Material Selection
Recommended Skills
Adhesive Processing / CAD Design / Quality Control / Traditional Craft Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To prevent irregularities in fine weaves and dimensional deviations. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to long hours of standing work and handling heavy materials. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because there is little calculation of material dimensions. |
Related Qualifications
- Tatami Production Skills Certification
Aliases
- Rush Grass Weaver Artisan
- Tatami Facing Artisan
Related Jobs
- Tatami Manufacturer
- Textile Weaver