Collection: Shibori Technique - Itajime

by Elizabeth Berg • September 7, 2021

Also known as the shape-resist technique. Fabric is typically folded like an accordion and then bound together between two pieces of wood using string or rubber bands to hold the design together tightly. The shapes prevent the dye from reaching parts of the fabric they are covering. You can create a wide variety of patterns depending on the fold, binding object/shape and placement of rubber bands. We’ll show you two ways to achieve this technique using wood blocks, large popsicle/craft sticks and two sizes of rubber bands.

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Step 1 - Square

For the first method, start by folding your fabric lengthwise like an accordion.

Step 2 - Square

Use the wood block to roughly measure how wide your next fold needs to be, then fold again like an accordion.

Step 3 - Square

Place the wood blocks (or any two flat objects) on the top and bottom of your fabric; secure with rubber bands. The smaller the flat object is and the fewer rubber bands you use, the more indigo will show through. The larger the flat object is and the more rubber bands you use, the more of the white fabric will be preserved.

Step 1 - Triangle

For the second method, start again by folding your fabric lengthwise like an accordion.

Step 2 - Triangle

This time, create a triangle shape by folding one end flap down and folding the triangle shape like an accordion.

Step 3 - Triangle

When you have it fully folded, place large popsicle/craft sticks on the top and bottom of one half of the triangle. Secure with large rubber bands. Repeat on the other half. You can also secure the middle of the triangle as needed.

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