Vintage Deadstock Hand-Painted Yūzen Silk 1/2 yd cut

A rare glimpse into Japan’s textile artistry

This small yet striking piece of vintage deadstock silk showcases the intricate beauty of Yūzen dyeing, a centuries-old hand-painting technique used to adorn fine kimono fabric. Each section is individually brushed and dyed by hand.

Developed in Kyoto during the Edo period, Yūzen (友禅染) combines resist-dyeing and brush-painting for unparalleled precision and color depth. Artisans begin by sketching the design with a faint blue guide, then pipe fine lines of rice-paste resist to separate colors. Each area is hand-painted with brushes using natural or synthetic dyes, steamed to fix the color, and then washed to reveal delicate gradients and crisp outlines. This slow, layered process gives the fabric its luminous detail—no two are ever alike.

Ideal for feature panels, patchwork, appliqué, or art quilting, this silk adds elegance and story wherever it’s used. 

• Vintage deadstock silk, hand-painted in the Yūzen tradition
• 100% silk with a soft crepe texture and gentle sheen
• Opaque with rich tones of yellow and gold
• Each ½ yd (18″) length is sent as a separate cut; multiples will not be continuous
• Best used for small projects such as patchwork, art quilting, or statement panels
• A collectible textile created through an exceptionally time-intensive process

Fiber content: 100% silk
Dimensions: 18″ × 14.2″ (46 × 36 cm) 

Made in Japan

Care:
Dry clean only. Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture or direct sunlight. Store wrapped in acid-free tissue to protect painted areas. Handle gently to preserve the texture and artwork.