Denim Matsuri
Kawaraban Print
The launch of the 2024 Denim Second Chapter Collection marks the beginning of a series of in-store events known as Denim Matsuri, aimed at sharing our passion with more customers. As part of this initiative, we have decided to publish a kawaraban—a traditional Japanese broadsheet.
Inspired by the letterpress printing used in our 45th-anniversary photo book 'Yonzyugo Aru,' this project is driven by a desire to blend historical techniques with contemporary artistry.
Our latest kawaraban employs a multicolor letterpress printing method using a German printing press, taking inspiration from Edo period woodblock printing. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Edo's woodblock printing flourished, paralleling the rise of letterpress printing with metal plates in the West. This project represents a crossover of Eastern and Western print cultures.
After an extensive search, we discovered a print studio in Osaka capable of producing letterpress prints in a slightly larger B4 size. Here, we were greeted by master craftsman Abe-san, who oversees a workshop where meticulously maintained, heavyweight printing presses still operate.
The process involves setting up letterpress plates for each color, carefully cleaning the rollers, and applying the ink. The Denim Matsuri logo is pressed in a distinctive indigo hue.
Due to paper's tendency to expand and contract with humidity, frequent checks for print quality, color consistency, and plate alignment are crucial. The deep indigo ink absorbed by the high-bulk paper is particularly striking.
"There's a lot of static today," Abe-san remarked, deftly halting the press to make adjustments whenever the paper feed stalled. His skilled maneuvering of the hefty machinery was a testament to his expertise.
We invite you to experience the kawaraban firsthand. As you run your fingers over the print, you will feel the tactile depth of the colors pressed onto the paper.
Kawaraban copies are available at Denim Matsuri venues and at our stores nationwide. We look forward to sharing this beautiful blend of tradition and innovation with you.
Denim Tale Continued
Appare Crafted Denim
Appare... A state of being remarkably splendid, impressive. The boldly applied patchwork and brightly
White Denim
Just as pristine as a white coat or as transparent as a Khadi blouse, the image of white varies with its shades and intensity. Our White Denim embodies a warm, rustic white that pairs well with both summer and winter outfits, offering versatile off-white hues.
Denim Masterful Repairs
Denim that has been worn and loved often develops holes, frayed hems, and worn pockets.
Denim Journey Journal - Episode 2
The launch of the 2024 Denim Second Chapter Collection marks the beginning of a series of in-store events known as Denim Matsuri, aimed at sharing our passion with more customers.
The Power Loom Stamp
The gravity loom is indispensable in the creation of 45R's Japanese artisan denim. With only a few of these antique looms still operational in Japan, they have garnered worldwide attention for their rarity and historical significance.
The Three Treasures of Denim Matsuri
Many of you who have visited our 45R store are likely familiar with "Matsuri." This event, pulsing with energy, involves the entire team coming together as one. It's not just a store event; it's a traditional festivity for us. And the symbols of 45R Denim Matsuri are known as the Three Treasures.
Denim Styles
To mark the beginning of Denim Chapter II, we've assembled five distinctive designs. First, for true denim enthusiasts, we present Sorahikohime. This straight silhouette, built with rugged construction and minimal embellishment, stands as a hallmark of 45R's denim craftsmanship, stitched powerfully with thick cotton thread.
Patch
In the serene stance of prayer or the dignified seiza posture on tatami mats, lies the essence of the leather patch. Crafting a patch that seamlessly blends into the tapestry of Japanese landscapes has been a pivotal challenge we've embraced alongside the inception of our denim's second chapter.
Embroidery Thread
"I love ‘R’ embroidery. "These precious words were given to us by a customer. R embroidery is the emblem of 45R. We call this R embroidery "Sleeping R. " With its relaxed, horizontal form, it embodies richness and freedom.
Denim Journey Journal - Episode 1
Hiroaki Maekawa Katachi Laboratory Department, Joined in 1998. Deeply connected to denim factories, with unparalleled love and knowledge for denim within the company.
The Five Shades of Indigo and Finishes
There's a phrase that says, "Sumi ni Gosai Ari," referring to the five shades of sumi ink. In the art of ink wash painting, shades of ink are used to represent different hues, ranging from the deep color of calligraphy ink to the lightest shades that look almost like water.
Union Special
The sound of a sewing machine, "Whirr-whirr, whirr-whirr" echoes from the back of the shop. In 45R's store, denim hems are altered with an old sewing machine painted with "Union Special."
A Passion for Denim: The Story of One Notebook
Whenever a new denim release comes out, it is a must-buy for him. With a collection of over 70 pairs, Mr. Kenta Goto, also known as the original Denim Master at 45R, is a remarkable denim aficionado within our company. We had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Goto from the Appare division.
Denim Tale Continued
Appare Crafted Denim
Appare... A state of being remarkably splendid, impressive. The boldly applied patchwork and brightly
White Denim
Just as pristine as a white coat or as transparent as a Khadi blouse, the image of white varies with its shades and intensity. Our White Denim embodies a warm, rustic white that pairs well with both summer and winter outfits, offering versatile off-white hues.
Denim Masterful Repairs
Denim that has been worn and loved often develops holes, frayed hems, and worn pockets.
Denim Journey Journal - Episode 2
The launch of the 2024 Denim Second Chapter Collection marks the beginning of a series of in-store events known as Denim Matsuri, aimed at sharing our passion with more customers.
The Power Loom Stamp
The gravity loom is indispensable in the creation of 45R's Japanese artisan denim. With only a few of these antique looms still operational in Japan, they have garnered worldwide attention for their rarity and historical significance.
The Three Treasures of Denim Matsuri
Many of you who have visited our 45R store are likely familiar with "Matsuri." This event, pulsing with energy, involves the entire team coming together as one. It's not just a store event; it's a traditional festivity for us. And the symbols of 45R Denim Matsuri are known as the Three Treasures.
Denim Styles
To mark the beginning of Denim Chapter II, we've assembled five distinctive designs. First, for true denim enthusiasts, we present Sorahikohime. This straight silhouette, built with rugged construction and minimal embellishment, stands as a hallmark of 45R's denim craftsmanship, stitched powerfully with thick cotton thread.
Patch
In the serene stance of prayer or the dignified seiza posture on tatami mats, lies the essence of the leather patch. Crafting a patch that seamlessly blends into the tapestry of Japanese landscapes has been a pivotal challenge we've embraced alongside the inception of our denim's second chapter.
