Persimmon Tannin Dyeing

Persimmon tannin is made by pressing unripe astringent persimmons and allowing the liquid to ferment and mature. In Japan, it has long been used as a functional material for its water-resistant, preservative, and insect-repellent properties. It supported everyday tools such as work garments, sake bags, paper for umbrellas, wooden buckets, boat fittings, and fishing nets.

Persimmon tannin dyeing involves impregnating fabric with this tannin-rich liquid and allowing the color to fix as oxidation progresses over time. The initial light brown tone gradually deepens as the tannins react with sunlight and air.

In clothing, the dye imparts both color and specific material qualities. The tannins introduce firmness and structure to the fabric, which soften slowly through wear and washing.

In addition to single-color dyeing, layered processes with indigo, sumi, or bengala are also used. When different dyes are applied in succession, the interaction between dye layers, fiber type, and weave structure produces depth and variation that differ from a single dye alone.