Upcycled Japanese Obi Messenger Bag ~ Handmade with Vintage Japanese Kimono Textiles
🧵 The Process
See how this bag was made by watching the video on Madly Kimono Youtube Channel!
👉 https://youtu.be/iwjQJh8M_0U
📖 The Story
This one-of-a-kind crossbody bag began its life as a vintage Japanese silk obi. The fabric features a striking "lightning bolt" geometric pattern overlaid with delicate embroidered flower and leaf motifs.
Originally intended to be a simple tote, the structured nature of the silk demanded something more sophisticated. This bag was hand-crafted in my studio using the Tesaki and Taresaki (the decorative ends) of the obi, ensuring that the most beautiful portions of the embroidery are the centerpiece of the design.
🪭 Design Details
The Flap: Features the Oridashi Sen—the traditional woven line found at the end of an obi—adding an authentic touch of Japanese textile history.
- The Body of the Bag: Made with silk obi with embroidery on the front and flap of the bag. The back and sides are solid red silk obi fabric.
- The Strap: A durable, hand-selected obijime (silk cord) in shades of light blue and gold. Though it looks dainty, it is incredibly strong and provides a comfortable, stylish carry.
- The Inner Lining: Thoughtfully lined with upcycled quilting cotton and features interior pockets sized perfectly for your phone, keys, and daily essentials.
- Hardware: Finished with heavy-duty metal hardware chosen to complement the gold tones in the silk embroidery.
👜 Specifications
- Dimensions: Roughly 18" length x 12" width x 4" depth (bag portion)
- Body: Vintage Silk Obi (Red with Gold/Blue/White embroidery)
- Strap: Authentic Silk Obijime
- Interior: Integrated pockets for organization
- Origin: Hand-constructed in the USA using vintage materials sourced from Japan
*Note: As this bag is made from vintage textiles, there may be very slight variations in the weave, which add to the unique character and history of the piece.
🌸 Sustainable & Authentic
This bag is a Madly Kimono "remake" project. By upcycling these vintage textiles, I am preserving the artistry of the original Japanese weaver while creating a functional, one-of-a-kind accessory. My sewing process is organic and intuitive—ensuring that no two pieces are ever exactly alike.
❤️ Care & Maintenance
This piece is a delicate fragment of textile history. Because vintage Japanese silks and dyes were often natural and not treated with modern chemical fixatives, they require specific care:
💧 Avoid Moisture: Protect the bag from rain and spills. Water can cause traditional dyes or metallic threads to spot or bleed.
🧺 Cleaning: Do not machine wash or dry clean. Spot clean only with a dry, soft cloth if necessary.
🌥️ Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant colors and metallic sheen.
✨ By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure this beautiful piece of Japanese textile art stays as special as the day it was made.
