Whispering Vines Yoyo Bag XL - Kyoto Artisan "Exquisite Kimono Silk" Light Travel, Elegantly Modern, Rare Gem

*Please message us for inquiries. Pre-orders are welcome, with an estimated creation time of 1.5 months.* Our recent journey to Kyoto was filled with serendipitous encounters and beautiful discoveries. It was an opportunity to re-experience the joy of living mindfully and to witness firsthand the profound respect and innovation the ancient capital holds for its traditional culture and craftsmanship. Among the many treasures, what captivated me most instantly were the clasped purses, meticulously handcrafted by kimono artisans. Mr. Nakamura, a former kimono craftsman with a gentle demeanor and refined grace, has retired from traditional kimono making but continues to design and create these unique clasped purses using the kimono fabrics he cherishes. 【Exquisite Kimono Silk Series】 The spirit of dedication, or *isshokenmei*, is evident in every detail and material choice. This piece features the rare 'Oshima Tsumugi'. Originating from Oshima Amami in Japan, this silk fabric is created by first dyeing the threads with mineral mud before weaving them. The intricate process involves twenty to thirty steps, and today, only a handful of artisans continue this tradition, making it increasingly scarce. In Japan, it is reserved for the creation of high-end kimonos. - 'Oshima Tsumugi' is characterized by its understated, resonant patterns with low saturation, offering a timeless appeal that effortlessly complements modern daily wear. Carrying one of these bags instantly elevates your style, merging vintage charm with contemporary chic. Unlike the overly vibrant or loud patterns found on ordinary fabrics, these designs ensure you stand out discreetly and avoid the commonality of mass-produced bags. Even in a small accessory, the use of superior materials speaks volumes about one's taste in fashion. As the artisan reminds us, "Please handle with care; the texture will become even softer with time." - It's clear why Kyoto residents take such pride in their city; they truly embrace quality in everyday life! We are deeply grateful that Mr. Nakamura graciously agreed to craft a special batch for us. I must be candid: compared to the myriad of clasped purses available elsewhere, the initial price might seem less approachable. At first, I too was drawn in by the aesthetic, not fully considering the significance of the high-quality kimono fabric or the delicate clasp as a given. However, after receiving and using it, the true value became apparent. With each use, I find myself genuinely admiring its beauty, growing more fond of it over time. For those fortunate enough to own one, you will understand why these are considered art pieces – they inspire a desire for continued collection! ------------------------ Material: 100% pure silk fabric (Oshima Tsumugi) Crafted by: Kyoto artisan, custom-made Specifications (excluding clasp): This Exquisite Kimono Silk Series is available in three sizes; this is the XL size: W22 x H18cm The XL companion bag is suitable for carrying: camera, phone, passport, A5-sized items, glasses, loose change, etc. ------------------------ If you have a particular style in mind, we encourage you to inquire early. (Note: The placement of patterns may vary slightly from the photograph.) Should you miss out on a coveted design, we will arrange for the artisan to create more. Pre-orders are welcome via message, though we cannot guarantee the availability of every specific pattern. Our hope is to share these exquisite crafts and designs with you all, allowing Mr. Nakamura to continue dedicating himself to his beloved clasped purses, accompanied by his cherished cats, for years to come.