Matsuda Dyeing Studio
松田染物店
Located in Yonago, Tottori Prefecture, Matsuda Dyeing Studio has been a family-run operation for 13 generations, specializing in the art of dyeing. Vibrant, organic, and rich with auspicious symbolism, their works carry important traditions in two significant ways.
First, they are one of the few remaining practitioners of the tsutsugaki method, where designs are "hand-drawn" by piping paste to resist the dye, resulting in one-of-a-kind creations. No two pieces are ever exactly alike. While many of their works feature classic motifs, such as the auspicious sea bream, this hand-drawing technique also allows for customization—whether it’s adding names to create personalized gifts or drawing specific motifs for someone special. This flexibility has made their pieces a cherished part of the local community.
Secondly, Matsuda Dyeing Studio is renowned for producing tairyo-bata—the "big catch flags" flown on fishing boats. Traditionally, these flags are hoisted when fishing vessels return with a bountiful catch, signalling the people onshore to prepare for the busy landing of fish. The flags celebrate the abundance of the sea, and as masters of tairyo-bata, Matsuda Dyeing Studio boasts a vast repertoire of auspicious symbols and vivid colors that are easily recognizable from a distance, even at sea.
Today, in addition to producing tairyo-bata, they also create everyday items such as tote bags, table runners, and tenugui fabrics, all featuring the traditional motifs that have adorned their flags for centuries. Every piece is still made entirely by hand, preserving the integrity of their craft. In recent years, the current owner, Nariki Matsuda, the 13th-generation head of the studio, has been joined by his son, Kazuki Matsuda, the would-be 14th generation, ensuring that these time-honoured traditions continue while also embracing contemporary lifestyles
