Shiga, Japan—
FUTO – Cotton linen waffle
Shiga – Cotton linen waffle
Woven in Shiga, this supple,
soft waffle fabric combines cotton and linen,
reflecting the region's long-standing linen
weaving tradition and abundant water.
Quality Features What makes it special
-
Waffle weave suited for towelsThe three-dimensional structure of waffle fabric offers high absorbency and dries quickly, making it well suited for use in the bath and kitchen. Designed for everyday use, it provides a comfortable, stress-free feel.
-
Crafted for comfortFrom yarn selection to dyeing, weaving, and finishing, each step is carefully considered to ensure a gentle, comfortable touch against the skin. Developed through close collaboration with a weaving factory, this waffle fabric is an original material created for Futo.
Material Story The process behind the product
-
01Two faces, two textures
This fabric is woven using organic cotton for the warp and linen for the weft. By varying the thickness of the yarns, the structure allows more linen to appear on the surface and more organic cotton on the reverse. The front feels crisp and smooth with excellent absorbency, while the back is pleasantly soft.
-
02The waffle structure
Waffle fabric is defined by its grid-like texture. In Futo's fabric, each square is constructed from eight threads and woven with high density. The raised structure increases surface area, allowing it to absorb moisture efficiently while creating channels for air to pass through, enhancing breathability and quick drying.
-
03Dyeing process for a soft texture
The grey linen yarn is dyed in skeins, wound loosely in bundles. The white and natural colorways are also starched in the same way. By treating the yarns in a relaxed state, the natural character of the linen is preserved, carrying through into the softness of the finished fabric.
-
04Omi-jofu and Omi linen
The Koto region, on the eastern side of Lake Biwa, is known as the birthplace of Omi-jofu. In the Edo period, hemp and linen cultivated in northern Kanto were transported along the Nakasendo route to be woven here, then sold in Kyoto. Through this network established by Omi merchants, linen weaving developed in the region. Today, the area holds two living legacies: Omi-jofu as a traditional craft, and Omi linen as a living industry.
-
05Continuity and evolution of craftsmanship
Historically, each stage of production—from yarn preparation to weaving and finishing—was carried out by small specialist workshops in the surrounding area. As the number of artisans declined, processes such as winding, warping, weaving, and fabric inspection came to be consolidated within a single factory. The introduction of rapier looms* has supported a more sustainable production system.
*Rapier loom: a weaving machine in which two rapier carriers pass the weft yarn across the loom at high speed. -
06Carrying on the tradition of linen weaving
As domestic linen production has declined with the rise of overseas manufacturing, the factory behind Futo’s fabric has remained committed to working with linen. With deep knowledge of the material and a focus on preserving its techniques for the future, this original waffle fabric for Futo is made possible.
Line Up Products crafted from this material
-
The face cloth is a convenient size for daily use and soft on the skin. The fringing on all sides reveals the contrast between warp and weft threads, adding a subtle accent.
-
The hand towel has a long, narrow shape that hangs easily on a towel bar and dries quickly. It is suitable for use in the kitchen, bathroom, and other everyday settings. Fringing along the top and bottom edges adds an effortless touch.
-
The bath towel is more compact than a standard size, while large enough for drying the body. It is easy to hang and dries quickly after washing. Lightweight and foldable, it can be stored in a compact space. Fringing along the top and bottom edges aids drying, making everyday use more comfortable.
-
The half blanket can be used in a variety of ways. Use it as a throw or blanket on cooler days or spread it out as a mat for casual picnics. It comes with a drawstring pouch for easy carrying and storage.
Journal
-
PRODUCT STORY
Origins of Futo — ShigaEveryday waffle towel, inspired by Shiga hemp Located on the eastern side of Lake Biwa, the Koto region has been producing textiles for more than six centuries.
