How to make a kimono
Step-by-step graphics
Author
Laura Maraver
Kitsuke master and kimono expert
I can’t remember a time in my life when I wasn’t deeply fascinated by Japan. My first steps into the world of kimonos were thanks to Yumi Saito (CEO of Kimono World Life), a friend and expert in kimonos who was living in Barcelona and whose passion inspired me. Eager to share kimonos with our city, we set up Kimono Club Barcelona (2008-2016).
My love for kimonos continued to grow, as did my curiosity and desire to learn more. In 2011, this curiosity led me to Japan where I studied at the Kyoto University of Foreign Studies and enrolled at a kimono school that specialises in
training kitsuke masters (“the art of wearing a kimono”). In the course of my 2-year training there, I worked alongside my teacher teaching classes, and participating in events demonstrating how to wear a kimono. I also trained in
wasai (traditional Japanese sewing), chanoyu (tea ceremony) and yuzen (painting on silk).
I travel regularly to Japan, to continue my learning and further advance my knowledge of kitsuke and wasai. On my return to Spain, I created my own brand
of kimonos and continue my work promoting the garment by holding conferences, exhibitions and presentations at Japanese cultural events, both in Spain and overseas.