Hand spinning, Yumihama-gasuri

The cultivation of Hakushu cotton began during the late-Edo period, developing through the work of housewives of agricultural families, who began weaving fabrics for casual work wear, formalwear, and futon coverings. Kasuri (ikat) patterns were first used between the years 1804 and 1818 in the areas of Yonago and Yumigahama. Weaving of kasuri textiles developed as a profitable side-industry, reaching the height of production in the closing years of the Edo period into the Meiji period.