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Introduction

Using Obi as a Decorative Accessory

Over the past few decades the Japanese kimono sash, or obi, has gained popularity as a home decorating accessory. The exquisite silk fabric, made into intricate patterns with stunning colors, makes the obi desirable as an accent in any room. Any of the obi styles mentioned in this book can be turned into objects of art for the home. Unlike the rules of fashion that dictate which kimono are worn with which obi, there are no restrictions when it comes to decorating with the obi. From contemporary to traditional interiors, the draping of an obi in a room can soften hard lines and add color to an otherwise drab area.

Although the most popular use for the obi with Westerners is as a table runner, it can also be used as a wall hanging or sculpture, or as an accent on furniture such as chests, pianos, and mantels. Obi of varying lengths can be folded, knotted, or tied with tassels to achieve the desired effect. Remnants of silk obi can be resewn into pillows and bedspreads, even showcased in picture frames.

Initially the maru obi was favored as an accessory due to its length of up to 4 m (4½ yd.) and width usually of 30 cm (12 in.). Maru obi also tend to be made of the finest brocade and are more expensive than other styles. Fukuro obi, while sewn differently, are very similar to maru obi in length and width. As fukuro obi were introduced in the 1920s in Japan, the very oldest obi are almost always of the maru style.

When selecting either a maru or fukuro obi, take time to unfold the obi and check the full length for any damaged spots. Also, look carefully at the design, as some obi may be missing part of the pattern. You may find, for example, that the flowers in a pattern are not fully colored on one section. This may have been an economic decision and not an oversight as only certain sections of the obi are visible when worn with kimono. However for someone who plans to display the full length, an uneven or unfinished pattern could present a problem.

Check the reverse side of the obi as well. Many obi are reversible, with a different but equally fantastic design on the back. It may also be a less expensive piece of fabric that totally clashes with the front. Sometimes the lining is plain silk, or perhaps a satin weave, and occasionally there may be no silk lining but a cheap, gauze-like fabric instead. Many obi sold for use in interiors have a new, neutral lining sewn on the back, especially if the original lining was unattractive or damaged.

Although the Nagoya style is a bit shorter, 314-345 cm (124—136 in.), than the formal maru or fukuro obi, it is quite popular for use in decorating due to its wide range of colors. Because it is pre-folded and easier to tie, the Nagoya obi is a convenient choice for young Japanese women to wear with kimono. This explains the availability of richer and brighter hues in the Nagoya style, as these colors are more appropriate for young or unmarried women.

In its original form, with part of the obi folded over and stitched, the Nagoya obi has a unique asymmetrical line. This seam can also be opened and the obi relined in order to achieve a longer style. If the obi is fully patterned, then it is easy to unstitch the seam, open it and reline the fabric. Before attempting this, check the folded area to see if the fabric is worn. Most obi will show a slight crease down the middle when they are opened, but, if the fabric is too worn, it will appear damaged.

If your Nagoya obi has a design on only sixty percent of the material, the plain portion can be cut out and the patterned pieces fitted together and resewn. Although this results in a shorter obi of approximately 213 cm (84.1 in.), the length is often more suitable for placing on the top of a small chest or table. Used in the original form, without relining, it is easy to knot or fold the narrow end of a Nagoya obi, whether patterned or plain, for a special touch.

Obi in the hanhaba fashion are very much in demand, due to their affordable price and narrow width of 15 cm (6 in.). This size is ideal for accenting the top of a mantel or for draping along the narrow stairs of a step chest (kaidan dansu). Another popular use for the hanhaba is as a wall hanging. The width is almost identical to that of old-fashioned "bell pulls" which hung in the homes of wealthy families, especially in the southern United States in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. These bell pulls, made of elegant tapestry, were mounted with brass fittings at the top and bottom.

Seasonal colors and motifs that are so important in all aspects of Japanese life, from culture and design to food and clothing, are also evident in obi. When creating a spring table setting you may want to use an obi in soft pink shades, perhaps sprinkled with embroidered cherry blossoms. For a festive holiday look, obi in bright reds and deep greens add elegance to any interior. Dramatic autumn shades of orange and rust are also color schemes frequently found in the obi.

When buying an obi for use as a decorative accent in the home, coordinating with your interior colors is the most important consideration. Though an obi in good condition will have a higher value, the condition alone is not the most critical factor. Slight stains and worn spots will not detract from an obi in the perfect color, with an exquisite design, used in the ideal setting.