What is “cobebe” ?
“cobebe” is artwork made from vintage kimonos and dressed in the traditional manner.
The vintage kimonos are scaled down to 1/3 size, for the models of 60cm / 23inch.
The name of “cobebe” is derived from the words ‘co’ which refers to vintage or small-sized, and ‘bebe’ which refers to kimono. cobebe is suitable for display and act as a centerpiece at the office, hotel, Japanese cuisine restaurant, event hall, or in your home.
Collections
Chic cobebe series
This is a collection of subtle colors and designs that when combined create a chic and sophisticated look.
Chic summer cobebe series
This is a collection of seasonal and more vibrant colors. Displayed to fit the season and a mood of the space.
Maiko cobebe series
This is a Maiko style collection.Antique cute colors, ‘darari’ or loose obi, and hemmed sleeves and shoulders are catachrestic of Maiko.
Dream cobebe series
This is a collection of colors both subtle and bold. Get lost in the design and simple patterns.
Making Process
1Preparation of kimono
Textiles are made from vintage kimono clothes.
2Selecting lining cloth
Select the lining cloth to match the color and patterns of the kimono, which is shown purposely from the edge of sleeves and the hem.
3Pattern positioning
Decide the position of the patterns while considering the whole balance when scaled-down for Cobebe size.
4Cutting
Cut the kimono into the scaled-down Cobebe size. This is the moment when we feel tensed when putting a blade in an important kimono.
5Sewing
After marking marks on the kimono with a heated spat, sew it carefully by hand.
Watch the video of the hand sewing.
6Making undergarment and obi – sash
Design and make the undergarment and obi -sash to match the color and patterns of the kimono.
7Dressing up
Dress the undergarment, kimono, and obi – sash on the specially made torso.
8Selecting the finishing parts
Select and add the Obijime – sash band and Obiage- obi bustle.
Artist
She has been involved in the kimono and dress-making industry for over 40 years, making kimono and teaching young generations how to make and dress kimono.
“cobebe” is compilation of kimono artisanship of experienced kimono artist – Toshie TANAKA.
Her philosophy is to create scaled versions of kimonos to be displayed in offices and homes around the world. With her long history in the kimono and dress-making industry, her passion to share the beautiful style and history of kimono drives her in the creations she makes.
Contact
We sincerely look forward to receiving your enquiry for Cobebe.