fabric

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Handwoven and hand-dyed fabrics do not have the uniform texture, color, and consistency
of machine-made fabrics.

Handwoven fabrics (Aso-oke) are woven in strips or in panels that are sewn together by
machine before the garment is cut and sewn. The techniques and patterns of traditional
Aso-oke date back hundreds of years. Traditional Aso-oke is becoming somewhat rare. It
is now used only on very important or very traditional occasions. The traditional Aso-oke
in our collection contains small holes and strings as part of the design. New style Aso-oke
changes with the fashion (which can change frequently). It is worn at weddings, parties and
other dress-up occasions.

Hand-dyed fabric are dyed in pieces, often 2 to 4 yards long. Patterns may vary from piece
to piece. Traditional designs or patterns refer to patterns long used. Those patterns are
becoming somewhat rare.

Guinea Brocade is a textured, machine-made, polished cotton. The hand-dyed patterns on
Guinea Brocade produces an interplay of textures and colors and tones.