Inspired by the nature of Okinawa,
I connect Japanese culture and parenting through sarashi,
a traditional Japanese cotton cloth.
Sarashi is a traditional Japanese cotton cloth that has supported everyday life for generations.
From pregnancy and child-rearing to emergency preparedness,
it offers both practicality and cultural value.
Through hand-dyeing in my studio in Okinawa,
I carry this tradition forward and pass it on to the next generation.
A dye studio specializing in sarashi textiles
Chinake Dye Studio
I create hand-dyed sarashi inspired by the rich nature of Okinawa,
carefully crafting each piece by hand.
Each cloth begins with thoughtful fabric selection according to its purpose —from maternity wraps and baby carriers to daily living and emergency preparedness.
Hand-dyeing brings subtle variations in color and texture,
making every piece unique.
Using environmentally conscious dyes, I center my work in the studio,
while occasionally offering dyeing experiences and workshops.
Founder of Okinawa Sarashi Onbu
Based in Okinawa and originally from Gifu Prefecture,
I am a mother of three, living a lively daily life with my children.
I first encountered sarashi after the birth of my first child.
At first, it was simply a piece of cloth.
Yet through everyday life — carrying my child on hikes, camping, and even dyeing together — sarashi became a natural part of our home.
It also became a bridge to new friendships and conversations across generations.
Through these experiences, I have come to value the gentleness and depth of this traditional cloth.I continue to share its beauty and carry it forward to the next generation.
【Selected Activities】
・Hosting sarashi workshops for over 10 years
・Disaster-preparedness seminars (3–5 times annually)
・47-prefecture caravan across Japan
・Media features in newspapers and television
Practice & Activities
Hand-Dyed Sarashi
I create hand-dyed sarashi inspired by the natural colors of Okinawa.
Each piece is carefully crafted by hand, with attention to purpose and individuality.
Educational & Community Programs
Through lectures and practical sessions, I share how sarashi can be used:
・As a maternity wrap
・As a baby carrier and onbu cloth
・For daily living
・For emergency preparedness
I have conducted programs across Japan, working with public institutions and local communities.
Support & Collaboration
I support individuals and groups who promote the use of sarashi,
encouraging independent activities in different regions.
I am also open to cultural collaboration and educational partnerships.
Sarashi is a traditional Japanese cotton cloth, woven from cotton and finished in white.It is known for its excellent absorbency, breathability, and soft texture.
For generations, sarashi has been used in many aspects of Japanese life —
as undergarments for kimono, festival attire, daily living, childcare, and even emergency preparedness.
The name “sarashi” comes from the traditional process of exposing the fabric to water and sunlight to remove impurities and purify it to a clean white.
From spinning cotton into thread, weaving the fabric, and carefully refining and bleaching it, each step creates its distinctive freshness and comfort.
Rooted in traditional craftsmanship and everyday wisdom, sarashi is a textile that gently supports daily life.
-Characteristics of Sarashi
・Excellent absorbency and breathability
・100% cotton with a soft touch
・Becomes more comfortable with use
・Simple and versatile for many purposes
Bringing Sarashi Closer to Daily Life
Belly Wrap
In Japan, during the fifth month of pregnancy, there is a traditional custom called Obi-iwai, a prayer for safe childbirth.
A hara-obi (maternity wrap) is worn around the abdomen to wish for the health of mother and baby.
This tradition is inspired by the belief that dogs give birth easily and safely, and has been passed down through generations.
Front Carry(Dakko)
When a baby is born, everything begins with gentle holding.
By wrapping the baby securely with cloth, the baby’s posture becomes more stable and supported.
The closeness created through holding brings comfort and reassurance to both parent and child.
Emergency Preparedness
A simple cloth can serve many purposes depending on how it is used.
Sarashi can be used as a substitute for masks or inner garments,as a bandage,or even to carry a child or adult in emergency situations.
Its versatility makes it a valuable material for both daily life and times of need.
Back Carry（Onbu）
Once the baby can support their head, back carrying — onbu — becomes possible.
Sharing the same view as the caregiver helps the child experience daily life together,
supporting communication and development in a natural way.
