Approximately 2,000 apron patterns discovered during a time when work was still closely linked to daily life

2,000 apron "patterns" dating back 40 to 50 years were discovered at an apron factory in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture.
Each and every one of them is packed with the history of Japanese commerce and the handiwork of apron artisans.

For example, there are aprons from a konnyaku shop and a bucket shop.
At that time, work and people's lives were not yet separated.
It seems to teach us important things about Japanese life, food, commerce, family, and so on that we have forgotten in this day and age.

Together with the Toyohashi Sail Weaving Promotion Association,
Starting with an exhibition in New York in November 2012, we hope to spread the word about our work in various places.
I hope to create opportunities for you to experience this.
I'm sure people all over the world will be able to relate to this, so I'll move forward with faith!




■The first completely reproduced apron: "Horse Racing Food Apron (1960s pattern)"■


As the first in our series of "Completely Reproduced Aprons," we have produced an apron from Keiba Foods Industry, located in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture.
Mr. Sugie, the chairman of the Homaekake Promotion Association, contacted the person who was running the horse racing food business at the time.
"The company disappeared a long time ago, but I wonder if the patterns are still around..."
They were very pleased with this, and we were able to make it a reality.


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(What is Keiba Foods?)
From what I've heard from people in Toyohashi, it seems that the company name comes from "Toyohashi Racecourse," which was in operation for a short period from 1925 (Taisho 14) to 1931 (Showa 6). As written on the apron, the company produced "syrup" and "cider" at the time, and apparently closed down about 30 years ago. "People in Toyohashi often drank Keiba-jirushi cider," they said.
They must have been loved by the children of Toyohashi before and after the war. Also, since they even made aprons (making aprons means there were many "retailers" that mass-produced and distributed them), we can assume that they were doing well.
To find out more, I will meet the person who actually ran the business, hand him an apron, and listen to what he has to say.
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It's finished!!! This is the apron that has been dyed for the first time in about 40 years!

The pattern is old, and the fabric itself is "Garabon" that was woven over 40 years ago.
" What is Garabo?" Click here



■Origin apron data■

1. Title: First Complete Reproduction Apron "Horse Racing Food Apron (1960s)"
2. Date of manufacture: June 2012 3. Material: Made from 'Garabo' apron woven over 40 years ago. 100% cotton
4. Size: 45cm wide x 67cm long *Old fabrics were narrower than today's 5. History of origin: The pattern was remade from one over 40 years ago 6. General sale: Available