MADO Tenugui // HADO Work by Hands // Japanese 100% Cotton Hand Towel
The Tenugui Towel – HADO Project “Work by Hands” celebrates the spirit of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the artistry of young artisans. Lightweight, quick-drying, and beautifully designed, this Japanese cotton hand towel is both functional and aesthetic. Although tenugui is a traditional Japanese hand towel, but its uses go far beyond that—serving as everything from a kitchen cloth to a decorative or wrapping textile.
This tenugui is hand-dyed by artisan Yoshikazu Nishikawa using chu-sen, a traditional dyeing technique from Sakai known for its rich colors and patterns. Nishikawa’s workshop is uniquely dedicated to preserving both chu-sen and sarashi—a traditional bleaching process that removes impurities from the fabric before dyeing. He represents the fourth generation of this craft lineage.
The design is created by Aoi Huber, whose work brings a modern sense of color to this historic textile, with art direction by Kazuhisa Yamamoto—blending contemporary design with time-honored Japanese craftsmanship.
Key Features
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Traditional Japanese Tenugui towel with unhemmed edges
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Lightweight, quick-drying, and durable woven cotton
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Printed by Yoshikawa factory using the traditional “chi-sen” method
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Multi-purpose use: personal care, kitchen towel, fashion accessory, or wall decor
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Can be used as headband (hachimaki), scarf, or bandana
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Eco-friendly gift wrapping or furoshiki-style presentation
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Perfect for artisans, chefs, and craftspeople
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Makes a unique souvenir or collectible item
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Easy to care for: hand wash or gentle machine wash
Measuring approximately 35 cm × 90 cm (13.5 in × 35.5 in), the tenugui is crafted from a single layer of woven cotton, dyed using traditional techniques. Its edges are unhemmed, allowing them to dry quickly and soften naturally over time, enhancing its tactile feel.
Tenugui are versatile and can be used in everyday life, traditional culture, and creative work:
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Personal care & hygiene: Hand towel, face cloth, sweat rag
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Gift wrapping: Eco-friendly furoshiki-style wrapping
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Fashion & accessories: Headband (hachimaki), scarf, or bandana
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Kitchen & dining: Tablecloth, placemat, or kitchen towel
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Craftsmanship & work use: Worn by artisans, chefs, and craftsmen to manage sweat
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Decoration & art: Framed or hung as wall art
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Souvenir & collectible: Unique regional or brand-specific prints
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First aid & utility: Makeshift bandage, dust mask, or wrap
This HADO Project tenugui embodies the philosophy of “Work by Hands,” connecting users to the skill, care, and intention behind each design. It’s an ideal accessory for those who value functional artistry, Japanese cultural heritage, and eco-conscious living.
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Dimensions: 35 cm × 90 cm (13.5 in × 35.5 in)
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Material: Single-layer woven cotton
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Designs: Aoi Huber Kono, Kazuhisa Yamamoto, Yoshikazu Nishikawa
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Care: Hand wash or gentle machine wash, air dry
Add a touch of Japanese tradition and artistic expression to your daily life with this versatile and meaningful tenugui towel.