History of Traditional Japanese Embroidery
Embroidery is believed to have been introduced to Japan from China during the seventh century. The earliest known pieces were illustrations of Buddhist teachings and used in temples and for worship. Over time, embroidery became a fashion accessory, rather than a religious one. At first available only to the Imperial Court and the samurai class, embroidered clothing became attainable by a wider range of Japanese society as imported silk became more available and demand grew. Although designs changed, professionals continue to produce kimono and obi (sashes) into the twentieth century.
Fearing that traditional methods of embroidery would be lost as demand for the elaborate garments declined, one of these professionals, Iwao Saito, started a workshop and school for traditional Japanese embroidery, Kurenai-Kai. In addition to training professionals through the traditional appretice system, Master Saito defied tradition by offering classes to Japanese and Western hobbyists.
Master Saito’s daugher, Masa, and her husband, Shuji Tamura, began travelling outside Japan to teach in 1980. After 10 years, the Tamuras moved to the U.S. and established the Japanese Embroidery Center in Dunwoody, Georgia. The Tamura family have produced textbooks in several languages and standardized a phased system of teaching traditional Japanese embroidery outside of the apprenticeship system. As students progress through the phases, they learn more techniques and refine their skills. A student can be certified to teach others after completing 9 phases (at the Center or with their own teacher) and the Phase 10 class at the Japanese Embroidery Center. There are now classes available all over the United States and Canada, as well as Australia, New Zealand, and throughout Europe.