The Master insists on using a traditional soil indigo fermentation method for printing & dyeing. The hand worked lime, starch, dye & each step are done by the Master & his family. The traditional handwork printing & dyeing is at the mercy of natures forces, affected by climate as sunshine is best to dry the fabric. Only the experience of a Master can know how to work with the seasonal conditions.
Still now, even in the rapidly changing world around them, we insist in a all hand-made techniques, including the making of the dye from plants. Our philosophy is that of taking our time, a slower tempo, because in their view, to produce high quality & the most authentic blue calico, is the pursuit of the Masters life.
We do things the slow way, the old way, that are timeless & for those who appreciate ancient skills & a more zen lifestyle, which is better for the customer, society & the planet.
The patterns are hand cut into stencils
The indigo dye vat is a closely guarded family secret and maintained daily
The tools of the trade and the work shop are all tinted in effervescent blue, Bamboo labels, stirring sticks , hand woven rattan baskets look as if they could have been used 800 years ago when indigo dyed fabric was made during the Song dynasty.
