Yuzen Dyer
ゆうぜんぞめこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Yuzen dyers are traditional craft technicians who dye patterns on fabrics such as kimonos using the Yuzen dyeing technique. They manually perform processes from underpainting to stencil creation, resist paste application, dyeing, steaming, and scouring.
Description
Yuzen dyers are artisans who dye patterns onto fabrics such as kimonos and obis using the traditional Yuzen dyeing technique. They first hand-draw the design placement and underpainting, create stencils afterward, and apply resist paste to separate colors. In addition to hand-painted Yuzen where pigments or dyes are mixed and applied with brushes or tools, they also use stencil Yuzen. After dyeing, they perform steaming and scouring to set the colors and prepare the fabric, completing beautiful patterns. Advanced color sense, delicate brush handling, and endurance for long hours of standing work are required.
Future Outlook
Although demand is limited due to the shrinking Japanese attire market, it is expected to remain stable owing to overseas interest and demand for high-value-added products. On the other hand, artisan aging and successor shortages are challenges, requiring efforts in next-generation training and technology inheritance.
Personality Traits
Excellent aesthetic sense / High concentration / Meticulous / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Artisan / Self-employed Sole Proprietor / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Dyer → Yuzen Dye Craftsman → Workshop Owner → Traditional Craftsman → Instructor and Technical Instructor
Required Skills
Illustration / Pigment Mixing / Resist Paste Application / Steaming and Scouring Processing / Stencil Creation
Recommended Skills
Color Theory / Design / Design Software (Adobe) / Presentation Skills
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Precise work is necessary to prevent fine color unevenness or stains. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is required to devise original patterns and color schemes. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because complex mathematical calculations are not used extensively. |
Related Qualifications
- Color Certification
- Dyeing Skills Certification
- Traditional Craftsman (Yuzen Dyeing)
Aliases
- Yuzen Craftsman
- Yuzen Dyeing Craftsman
Related Jobs
- Dye-Weaver
- Dyer
- Shibori Dyer