Kimono Upcycle: Aoyagi’s Craft Brings Japanese Beauty
1300 years of tradition reborn. Aoyagi upcycles kimono into bags and pouches, bringing unique Japanese beauty to your hands.
1300 years of tradition, reimagined for today.
Upcycled kimono fabrics transformed into bags and accessories through the mastery of Aoyagi artisans.Hold a one-of-a-kind piece of Japanese beauty in your hands.
Aoyagi reimagines kimono through hand-crafted upcycling, shifting the art of “wearing” into the joy of “carrying.” Authentic Japanese craft, designed for your everyday.
This isn’t just a bag or a pouch.
Aoyagi’s Kimono Upcycle Collection is a series of one-of-a-kind pieces created from 1300 years of textile tradition and the hands of master artisans.
Furisode and homongi kimono that have fulfilled their original purpose are reborn as ribbon scarves, gusseted pouches, sukiya bags, and A4 tote bags.Each piece carries its own story—expressed through vivid patterns, deep colors, and the unmistakable presence of handcrafted textile art.
This sustainable, ethical initiative is our commitment to preserving kimono culture for the future, and sharing its beauty with the world.
Together with the Kickstarter community, we hope to take the first step toward keeping this cultural heritage alive.
Aoyagi’s Upcycle Collection is made by carefully revitalizing kimono fabrics, each dyed and crafted by hand.Unlike printed textiles, authentic kimono fabrics have depth, weight, and a character that grows richer with time.Because every piece uses a different part of the fabric, every item is truly one-of-a-kind.
Note on Colors & Patterns:
Color Selection: You will be able to select your preferred color family (Redtone, Bluetone, or Blacktone) via the PledgeBox survey sent after the campaign concludes.
Unique Patterns: Because these are upcycled items, the pattern placement varies for each piece. Your item will be a one-of-a-kind design.
Features: A slender scarf made from vibrant kimono fabric. Wrap it around a bag handle, your neck, or your wrist to add an elegant touch.
Why it’s special: Every pattern is unique and effortlessly elevates your everyday style.
Features: Designed with a roomy bottom gusset for excellent storage.Approx. W16 × H10 × D4 cm—ideal for cosmetics or small essentials.
Why it’s special: Durable, practical, and beautiful. The deep hues of kimono dyeing bring quiet luxury into daily life.
Features: A modern reinterpretation of a traditional tea-ceremony pouch.Use it as a clutch or organizer. Approx. H14 × W20 × D3 cm.
Why it’s special: Detailed dyeing and refined patterns embody Japanese aesthetics. Perfect for special occasions.
Features: A functional tote that fits A4 documents, with an inner pocket.
Why it’s special: Bold kimono patterns create an unbeatable presence—suited for business, casual outings, and travel.
Note on Colors & Patterns:
Color Selection: You will be able to select your preferred color family (Red, Blue, or Black) via the PledgeBox survey sent after the campaign concludes.
Unique Patterns: Because these are upcycled items, the pattern placement varies for each piece. Your item will be a one-of-a-kind design.
Stretch goals will include limited colors and exclusive charms.
Niigata’s Tokamachi region has been a textile center for 1300 years.From early Aoso hemp weaving to innovations shaped by war and social change, the town has constantly reinvented its craft.
Founded in 1938, Aoyagi began as a weaving studio after the first generation relocated from Kurosaki.
In 1964, inspired by the Tokyo Olympics and rising nationwide demand, Aoyagi shifted from weaving to dyeing, committing to creating kimono with integrated design and craftsmanship.
A kimono is born from the passion of people and the breath of nature.From design to final garment, Aoyagi artisans infuse every furisode, homongi, tsumugi, and obi with the depth of Japanese aesthetics.
But a kimono’s story doesn’t have to end once it is no longer worn.Through this Kickstarter project, we give these fabrics a new purpose—transforming their vibrant colors and rich narratives into bags and accessories for modern life.
Guided by the founder’s principle, “Never imitate,” Aoyagi consistently pursues original designs.
The process is challenging, often involving trial and error, but our artisans uphold the spirit of “let’s try it first” with each new idea.
Kimono fabric itself is a treasure—dyed by hand, woven with texture, and enriched through years of care.Its beauty deepens over time, reflecting family stories passed from mother to daughter.
Customers often tell us:
“I’ve never seen patterns like these.”
“The depth of the kimono fabric makes my everyday feel special.”
These items are embodiments of Japanese aesthetics and artisan passion.We believe this culture should not become something that “can no longer be made,”
but something we continue to create for generations.
Aoyagi artisans like Takizawa (9.5 years of experience) and Kusaka (3 years) hone their craft with uncompromising precision. Yet, an aging population and urban migration reduce artisan numbers. President Aoyagi Kurando aims to pass skills to young people and global fans, fostering new artisans. This project leverages SNS and events to spread kimono’s allure, nurturing future craftsmen.
Note on Colors & Patterns:
Color Selection: You will be able to select your preferred color family (Redtone, Bluetone, or Blacktone) via the PledgeBox survey sent after the campaign concludes.
Unique Patterns: Because these are upcycled items, the pattern placement varies for each piece. Your item will be a one-of-a-kind design.
*We do not accept returns or exchanges.
Aoyagi Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1938 in Tokamachi City, Niigata, Aoyagi is a specialist in kimono creation rooted in 1300 years of regional textile heritage.
We produce furisode、 homongi, tsumugi, obi and more through an integrated, artisan-driven process.
Since shifting to dye-focused production during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, we have balanced tradition and innovation to create high-quality kimono.
Our president, Kurando Aoyagi, carries the philosophy of “never imitate,” guiding the company toward original, culturally meaningful craftsmanship.
This upcycle project transforms kimonos that have completed their original purpose into sustainable, modern accessories.
Each item is infused with the soul of the artisan, made to be cherished for generations.