PETIT JAPON

How to Fold Kimono

In today's increasingly Japanese fashion world, the beautiful kimono is perhaps a staple of just about every wardrobe. Fortunately it's easier than you may think to keep your kimono wrinkle-free. Follow these steps to fold a kimono in a minute. Remind you that take special care to make it last a long time so you can pass it on to future generations.

Things you will need

Kimono
Rice Paper

Steps

1. Lay the kimono flat. Spread the kimono out on a flat surface such as a clean table.

2. Fold the right side of the shoulder section (which will be to your left, since you are facing the kimono) out to the left. Lift the seams with the motion, so that the entire shoulder panel is directed this way.

3. Repeat the same step with the left shoulder, turning it out to the right along with the whole panel. Both the right and left sides should now be facing out like wings.

4. Fold the entire kimono in half, going lengthwise, so the width will be decreased in half.

5. Accomplish this by lifting the left side up and over onto the right.
Do the same thing with the sleeves, placing the left sleeve over on top of the right one.

6. Fold the bottom half of the kimono up so it rests on the rest of the garment.
Lift the half of the length up and fold it toward the top, so it rests on the fabric above it.
If you have done this correctly, you should be left with a rectangular shape.

7. Wrap the folded kimono in rice paper to protect the fine fabric.

8. Store with great care in a cedar chest or bureau.

Tips

Choose a cool, shaded place to store the kimono.
Be sure to place the delicate kimono in a chest or bureau, away from sunlight and heating events.

Warning

Dry heat can damage the delicate textile, so be very careful with this expensive garment.