The secret to the freestyle design potential of yūzen dyeing is the technique of outlining dyed sections with fine lines of paste (itome nori), which is washed off after the dyeing. This paste, which can be wielded like a paintbrush, allows colored dyestuffs to be contained within specific sections.
The fine paste-resisted lines, which are protected from the dyes, remain white, serving as an elegant accent.
Interested in Natural history?
Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.