FUKUDA SHOTEN

Located in Isésaki, Gunma, JAPAN.

What is side embroidery (Yokofuri): Side embroidery (Japanese: Yokofuri) is said to have originated in 1854 when Perry sent some to the Tokugawa family when he arrived in Japan on a black boat. This is a traditional technique that has been carried on since the Edo period and is designated as one of the traditional crafts of Gunma Prefecture.

In addition to a foot pedal, horizontal balance sewing machines have a lever near the knee. The operator moves the knees by pressing the pedal and finishes the fabric by moving it with both hands. The operation of these sewing machines is delicate and takes years to master.

With the spread of computerized sewing machines, only a small number of artisans remain. The colors, landscape and expression of the finished product of horizontal embroidery, woven by artisans who spare no effort, change depending on the viewing angle, it is called "a picture made of threads".

These expensive and beautiful pieces are recommended as gifts and souvenirs. They are also used for unique and expensive bomber jackets.

FUKUDA SHOTEN: Since our company was established in 1980 in Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture, we have been exclusively dedicated to embroidery processing and have more than 40 years of trust and experience in this field. Our artisans use a wide range of machines, from the historic horizontal beam machine to the most advanced industrial sewing machines, to create embroidered products. Orders, production and inspection are all carried out in our factory.

This new work is the result of a collaboration between a 200-year-old master of ukiyo-e printmaking and a modern artisan embroiderer. It attracts attention in exhibitions around the world as a new work of Japanese art.

For the global environment: Fukuda Shoten's yoko-furi (horizontal) embroidery uses "Ecolapos", an embroidery thread made from 100% recycled polyester from plastic bottles.

By minimizing oil consumption and efficiently using renewable resources, we contribute significantly to reducing our environmental impact. Additionally, there is absolutely no loss in the quality of the embroidery thread.