Jeans lovers are crazy fans of Japanese denim fabric. It offers vintage aesthetics. It stays with you lifelong emotions. There are many large brands of Japanese denim clothes. But if you want to tailor your clothes, buying some Japanese denim fabric is the way to go.
However, Japanese denim fabric has some differences. They have some great traits, too. We will explore these in detail.
Hi, we are Team Muslin Dhaka. We are a group of fashion designers and fabric experts. We are working together to experiment, develop, and define luxury fabrics from a deeper perspective.
In this article, we will share our knowledge and practical experience with you.
Let’s start.
Special Note: Here, “Japanese denim fabric” means the fabric by the yard. While “Japanese denim” means – expensive Japanese denim clothes.
What is the Japanese Denim Fabric?
Japanese denim fabric is made traditionally, usually in Japan. Ideally, it is made with a vintage Toyota loom, which brings the unique characteristics of the fabric. Japanese denim fabric is dyed with natural indigo and old dyeing methods. Due to its meticulous traditional way of production, quality and huge demand, it’s one of the most expensive fabrics in the market.
Previously, Japanese denim fabric was not sold by the yard. But with the popularity of DIY projects, people are interested in buying Japanese denim fabric by the yard.
Boutique brands like Momotaro, Kapital, Oni denim dont sell fabric. However, many fabric companies focus on high-quality Japanese denim fabric. The good news is that the fabric is less expensive than clothing brands. So, purchasing Japanese denim fabric can be an affordable way to experience the class of Japanese denim.
At A Glance
Industrial Name Japanese Denim, Selvedge Denim
Construction Thick and compactly constructed.
Weight 70-80% heavier than regular Levis Denim.
Color Usually indigo blue. But different colors are available
Airflow Low
Moisture Absorbance Mid
Weaving Twill
Stretch Usually no
Heat Insulation Cool in summer, warm in winter.
Shrinkage Ratio 2-7 percent. Depends on the type.
Usage Used to make tailored clothing & luxury fashion.
History of Japanese Denim Fabric
Denim became popular in Japan during the Second World War. American soldiers sold some of their old denim in Japan before leaving the country. Some Japanese people brought those and they absolutely loved it. Later they started their own denim industry. This is how the journey of Japanese denim fabric starts.
The history of Japanese denim is quite interesting. However, we have already told that story in our luxury Japanese Denim article. But when it comes to fabric, it is actually hard to know the history. Our fabric history expert suggests that Japanese denim fabric recurred with the rise of denim in Japan.
How is Japanese Denim Fabric Made?
Not all the Japanese denim fabrics are made equally. Some are made with old techniques, while some are attempts to cope with the old techniques with modern machines. Those are called imitation Japanese denim.
However, let’s explore the modern technique of making Japanese denim Fabric.
- Materials: The fabric is made of high-quality cotton and organic indigo dye. However, cheaper ones may contain artificial colors.
- Dyeing: Japanese denim fabric dyed with original indigo. They are organic in color. The process can take months to do perfectly. However, most Japanese denim fabrics, especially the cheaper ones, are made in other easier ways.
- Weaving: Twill weaving used to make Japanese denim fabric. The fabric weaved with a vintage Toyoda shuttle loom. The most expensive Japanese denim is made with the machinery of the 1920s. Those machines make irregular weaving which makes every denim unique. This is one of the notable differences between Regular and Japanese denim fabric!
Types of Japanese Denim Fabric
There are many types of Japanese jeans fabric. We can differentiate them with textile materials, making processes, weaving, dyeing & washing, etc.
This denim fabric is made of 100 percent cotton or cotton blend fabric. Blend fabrics are less stretchy than pure cotton.
For different uses, this Japanese fabric could be light, medium & heavy. Lighter version is good for shirting while a heavier one is better for winter clothing.
These denim fabrics might be RAW Denim or Washed. Their color might not be traditional indigo!
These are the basic types of selvedge denim fabrics which are normal to fulfill different uses.
Characteristics of Japanese Denim Fabric
The characteristics can vary a lot. But there are some ideal characteristics you should look for in the original ones.
Appearance
This denim fabric looks aesthetic and comes with a rich color. But it’s not distinguishable from other denim until you look closely.
Softness
The fabric is stiff and rough at first. It is one of the key features of the fabric. But with each wash, the fabric gets softer. It also does not cause any itching or allergies.
Yarn quality
Premium Japanese denim contains high-quality cotton yarns. The quality varies depending on quality, price, and other factors.
Breathability
The fabric is not breathable, but it’s not uncomfortable either. The fabric is compact, does not absorb much heat.
Heat absorption
Similar to other denim, Japanese denim fabric is quite neutral when it comes to heat absorption. It is suitable for every season.
Stretch
Japanese denim fabric is not stretchy. However, some of the variations may contain stretchy materials.
Water absorption
Like most cotton fabrics, Japanese denim absorbs moisture fast. However, due to its compact nature, the absorption rate is not as fast as other cotton fabrics.
Shrinkage
Raw Japanese denim fabric will shrink 5-7 percent, so consider buying a bit more fabric than you need. Also, tell your tailor to keep the shrinkage factor in mind.
Durability
This fabric is the most durable kind of denim. With little care, you can use it for decades.
Color retention
Japanese denim fabric will fade and look more beautiful. The original ones look more beautiful when they become old.
Uses of Japanese Denim Fabric
Japanese denim fabric is used to make tailored and DIY clothes. The fabric is also used for accessories. Large fashion brands usually make their jeans, jackets, etc. Often those are not enough for the denim fans. Accessories made by this fabric have different appeal.
When fans want to make clothes with their own designs, they choose to buy fabric by the yard.
They use the fabric for making tailored jeans, three-quarters, shorts, jackets, and skirts.
The Advantage & Disadvantage of Japanese Denim Fabric
Let’s see the highlights with a pros and cons section.
Pros
- It’s a lot cheaper compared to clothing.
- One can design their own dresses with the fabric.
- More available.
- Great for DIY projects.
Cons
- The original ones are a bit hard to find.
- The quality is often not as great as branded jeans.
- The fabric is thick and compact– hard to work with.
What is the difference between Japanese and Italian denim?
Italian denim is also very popular for its quality and comfort. It has some major differences with Japanese ones. Japanese denim fabric is focused more on traditional techniques. Flipside, Italian denim can be made with shuttle and modern looms.
Italian denim also focuses on comfort more than Japanese one. Japanese and Italian denim is similar in quality (when compared to similar-priced products). But undoubtedly Japanese denim has more historical and cultural rizz.
How to care for Japanese Denim Fabric?
This denim fabric is quite durable. So, it does not need special care like other expensive fabrics. Following some stranded practices will keep your denim in desirable condition.
I mentioned “desirable” because you can control how you want your denim. If you want to make it fade faster, you need to wash it frequently with a bit stronger detergent. If you want slower fade, you should wash it less frequently.
Now, let’s talk about the care tips.
- Hand washing and machine washing are both fine, but make sure to set a gentle cycle and organic detergent.
- Avoid drying in direct sunlight, it will ruin the color.
- Denim fabric takes longer to dry. Once it dries completely, store it in a cold and dark place.
- Don’t use a brush to remove the stain. It will damage the fabric.
Japanese Denim Fabric by the Yard
Japanese denim fabric by the yard can cost about 10$ to more than 50$. However, the most expensive Japanese Denim Fabric is not available online. You can get mid-price range products normally. For pricey Made in Japan products, you should source the original ones.
Where can you buy Japanese Denim Fabric?
Japanese denim fabric is hard to find in your nearest fabric shop. It is not that available offline. On the other hand, you can access a variety of Japanese denim fabrics online. There are some dedicated online shops for Japanese denim and denim fabric.
You can also get quality options from the marketplaces like Amazon and Etsy. However, it’s a bit hard to get the quality ones. Here is our suggestion for you.
FAQ
How long does it take to break in Japanese denim?
Breaking refers to the process of getting softened. Japanese denim takes a bit longer to break than other denim. The breaking process takes one to three months.
What is the difference between imitation and real Japanese denim?
Real Japanese denim is made with traditional techniques and antique machines. And imitation ones try to copy the real Japanese denim with modern techniques. Imitation can also have great quality and accuracy.
Is selvage denim better than regular denim?
Selvage denim is more durable. But it is not always better than regular ones. There can also be low-quality selvage denim.
Conclusion
Japanese denim fabric by the yard is more affordable. It gives you the freedom to design your own clothes, let alone the creative pleasure. Make sure to get it from a trusted brand.
Need to buy Japanese denim fabric? Read 5 best Japanese denim fabrics.
Shariful Alam Pavel, A fashion lover, passionate marketer. Love to share wisdom based on real life experience to enrich knowledge.
Founder of Muslin Dhaka, a brand, speaks the truth about royal muslin and fashion. Explore the digital fashion universe with organic cotton muslin and much more!
0 Comments