Japanese futons come with some striking patterns, often filled with very traditional motifs and imagery. Most of our patterns relate to nature and/or the changing of the seasons. A lot of patterns also have symbols of wealth, good fortune, and friendship. All the good things that you want to manifest while you catch your zzzs!

Most of the fabric patterns that we use for our futons are always available, unless the fabric house stops printing them. It’s very sad when this happens – we have had to say goodbye to a couple of our beloved fabrics such as Ougi and Nami. We often find large pieces of discontinued fabric when we do big clear outs. When this happens, we are able to sometimes make 1 single shikibuton or 1 queen kakebuton, as an example. These appear on our instagram and facebook only so please be sure to follow us for these announcements and act quickly!

Below, you can read descriptions about the details and meaning of our usual fabric motifs:

Sashiko – translates literally as “little stabs” – this is a form of decorative reinforcement stitching used for well-worn areas of garments or to repair a hole. A very popular choice!

Aki and Haru – translates literally as “Autumn” and “Spring” respectively. These patterns are a bit more modern in appearance but the colours truly represent their season!

Matsukasa – translates literally as “pinecone” – a symbol of longevity and health. Also referred to as “paisley”, an intricate, curved repetitive pattern which can resemble feathers, pinecones or flowers.

Ume – the flower of the plum tree, more similar perhaps to an apricot – the fruits are used to make Japanese plum wine and preserves. The Ume patterns are very versatile and have a lot of detail, almost like a kimono!

Kawa – translates literally as “river”. One of our most popular fabrics – it looks great on any size futon. The colours and detail are gorgeous.

Aizanmai – refers to the colour indigo. Now, our fabric is black instead of indigo, comprising details of traditional Japanese motifs.

Shinsha – refers to the brownish red colour sourced from cinnabar, the ore from which mercury is also derived. The mineral is associated with volcanic activity and alkaline thermal springs, but it is also associated with protection against evil spirits.

Plain White and Charcoal – for the lovers of a more minimal style or for those who prefer the simplicity of a nice, plain fabric that is clean and clear of pattern.

In addition to our usual suspects above, each year we introduce two seasonal fabrics that are one-off fabric prints made for ceremonies and festivals depicting dragon and koi motifs. The fabric designs are not repeated, but many look quite similar because they have the same accompaniments such as mountains, sakura, clouds, waves, lily pads and lightning bolts. These patterns are special also because have a heavier, textured weaving called “Southern Cross”.

Dragon – Ryu in Japanese – symbolises strength, courage and wealth. Asian dragons do not have wings, but some can fly!

Koi – symbol of courage, perseverance, love and friendship, simultaneously in Japan.

A very common question that customers ask: why choose a pattern if you’re going to be covering it with covers and sheets anyway? Well, I suppose it’s a little bit like wearing nice underwear when you wear clothes on top … it makes you feel fancy and can make dreams come true! 😉