Handmade Upcycled Obi Organic Cotton Hoodie XLsize

This is a handmade organic cotton hoodie upcycled from a 4.5-metre Fukuro obi (Japanese traditional sash).

This panel is made from a vintage Japanese obi – a sash traditionally worn with kimono. It features a mix of classic patterns that all have special meanings in Japanese culture.

The diamond shapes in the center represent things like balance and good fortune – they’re often used in celebration wear. The big orange flowers are chrysanthemums, which stand for longevity and happiness, and are actually the symbol of the Japanese imperial family.

At the top, you’ll see stylized leaves and little white flowers – that’s the paulownia plant, another symbol connected with Japanese tradition and status.

What I love about this design is how bold the colours are, and how it mixes nature with geometric shapes. It’s not just pretty – it tells a story.

What’s a Fukuro Obi?

A fukuro obi is a long, decorative sash traditionally worn with a kimono in Japan. It’s usually made from beautifully woven silk or brocade, often with intricate patterns that reflect the seasons or traditional symbols. At around 4.5 metres in length, it’s a piece of textile art in itself. These days, they’re rarely worn, which makes them perfect for giving a new life through upcycling — turning something once formal and precious into something you can wear every day.