Second Life: Series 11 !
The wait is over! Series 11 has officially dropped!
Ojami Cushion - Second Life: Series 1
Honoring the Past: The Second Life Collection
A traditional Japanese Obi is more than just a beautiful fabric; it is a vessel for memories. From the celebration of a coming-of-age ceremony to the quiet dignity of a family heirloom, these belts once bore witness to life’s most significant milestones. Today, many of these cherished pieces remain tucked away in closets, waiting for a chance to shine once more.
Our "Second Life" collection is an invitation to embrace the spirit of Mottainai—the Japanese philosophy of finding value in the old and honoring its essence. At Takaokaya, we embrace this sentiment by breathing new life into these pre-loved treasures. Our master craftsmen delicately repurpose vintage Obi into our signature Ojami cushions, evolving them from formal attire into essential pieces for modern relaxation.
Because every Obi is handled with individual care, each resulting cushion is a completely unique work of art. This transformation allows the intricate craftsmanship of the past to become a part of your daily comfort, ensuring that the legacy of your cherished fabric lives on in the heart of your home.
Obi Belt
- Size
-
M: Φ40cm
If you prefer a different size, please contact us at intl@takaoka-kyoto.jp
*Size is approximate
- Material (Fabric)
-
Each obi belt is a pre-loved vintage piece sourced from different locations, and as such, its exact origin and fabric composition are unknown.
Water-repellent finish included.
- Filling
- 70% Cotton, 30% Polyester + Core: Polyurethane
- Weight
- 1.1kg
-
Our Bespoke Process: Once we receive your order, we will begin the journey of crafting your one-of-a-kind Ojami cushion from your selected obi belt. Within 3 business days, we will contact you to discuss the best design and layout options for your unique piece.
Additionally, during the final finishing stage, we will reach out again to confirm your preferred tassel color (100% Silk). Please keep an eye on your email for these updates so we can proceed with your order.
All of our products are made-to-order. Each piece is handcrafted specifically for you once your order is confirmed. Please allow approximately 14-20 business days for production before your item is shipped.
- Lead times may vary depending on current workshop volume and specific customizations, such as embroidery, Hanakomon, or water-repellent finishing.
- Delivery times vary by country and carrier.
- If you have a specific deadline, please feel free to contact us (intl@takaoka-kyoto.jp). We will do our best to accommodate your request and expedite your order where possible.
Our craftsmen and women carefully craft each piece to ensure the highest level of comfort, and we thank you for your patience while awaiting its arrival.
This product contains cotton filling. To ensure its longevity, please follow these care instructions:
Washing
- Do not wash at home. This item is not suitable for home laundering.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, gently dab the area with a damp cloth as soon as possible. Avoid rubbing harshly, as this may cause the color to bleed or fade.
- Professional Cleaning: If deep cleaning is necessary, please consult a professional cleaner specializing in futons or heavy bedding.
Drying
- Sun drying is possible. However, please be aware that dark-colored items may fade if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Storage
- Store in a well-ventilated area. * Before long-term storage, we recommend drying the item in the sun to remove any lingering moisture.
- Moisture Prevention: Cotton filling is sensitive to humidity. To prevent moisture buildup and mold, do not store in airtight plastic bags. Instead, use a breathable material such as a non-woven fabric bag.
Important Notes on Product
- Handcrafted Quality: Each of our products is handcrafted by skilled artisans—from cutting and sewing to filling and finishing. As a result, there may be slight variations in size, shape, weight, and firmness between individual pieces. We appreciate your understanding of these unique, handmade qualities.
- Natural Wear and Cushioning: Since this product is filled with cotton, the degree of compression over time will vary depending on the frequency of use, the user’s body type, and how the item is handled. Please understand that settling (loss of loft) is a natural characteristic of cotton filling and should be expected over time.
- Static and Fiber Migration: Due to the nature of cotton filling, friction against clothing or other fabrics may cause static electricity. This can occasionally cause fine cotton fibers to work their way through the outer fabric. We appreciate your understanding of this material trait.
Honoring the Past: The Second Life Collection
A traditional Japanese Obi is more than just a beautiful fabric; it is a vessel for memories. From the celebration of a coming-of-age ceremony to the quiet dignity of a family heirloom, these belts once bore witness to life’s most significant milestones. Today, many of these cherished pieces remain tucked away in closets, waiting for a chance to shine once more.
Our "Second Life" collection is an invitation to embrace the spirit of Mottainai—the Japanese philosophy of finding value in the old and honoring its essence. At Takaokaya, we embrace this sentiment by breathing new life into these pre-loved treasures. Our master craftsmen delicately repurpose vintage Obi into our signature Ojami cushions, evolving them from formal attire into essential pieces for modern relaxation.
Because every Obi is handled with individual care, each resulting cushion is a completely unique work of art. This transformation allows the intricate craftsmanship of the past to become a part of your daily comfort, ensuring that the legacy of your cherished fabric lives on in the heart of your home.
Obi Belt
All of our products are made-to-order. Each piece is handcrafted specifically for you once your order is confirmed. Please allow approximately 14-20 business days for production before your item is shipped.
- Lead times may vary depending on current workshop volume and specific customizations, such as embroidery, Hanakomon, or water-repellent finishing.
- Delivery times vary by country and carrier.
- If you have a specific deadline, please feel free to contact us (intl@takaoka-kyoto.jp). We will do our best to accommodate your request and expedite your order where possible.
Our craftsmen and women carefully craft each piece to ensure the highest level of comfort, and we thank you for your patience while awaiting its arrival.
This product contains cotton filling. To ensure its longevity, please follow these care instructions:
Washing
- Do not wash at home. This item is not suitable for home laundering.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, gently dab the area with a damp cloth as soon as possible. Avoid rubbing harshly, as this may cause the color to bleed or fade.
- Professional Cleaning: If deep cleaning is necessary, please consult a professional cleaner specializing in futons or heavy bedding.
Drying
- Sun drying is possible. However, please be aware that dark-colored items may fade if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Storage
- Store in a well-ventilated area. * Before long-term storage, we recommend drying the item in the sun to remove any lingering moisture.
- Moisture Prevention: Cotton filling is sensitive to humidity. To prevent moisture buildup and mold, do not store in airtight plastic bags. Instead, use a breathable material such as a non-woven fabric bag.
Important Notes on Product
- Handcrafted Quality: Each of our products is handcrafted by skilled artisans—from cutting and sewing to filling and finishing. As a result, there may be slight variations in size, shape, weight, and firmness between individual pieces. We appreciate your understanding of these unique, handmade qualities.
- Natural Wear and Cushioning: Since this product is filled with cotton, the degree of compression over time will vary depending on the frequency of use, the user’s body type, and how the item is handled. Please understand that settling (loss of loft) is a natural characteristic of cotton filling and should be expected over time.
- Static and Fiber Migration: Due to the nature of cotton filling, friction against clothing or other fabrics may cause static electricity. This can occasionally cause fine cotton fibers to work their way through the outer fabric. We appreciate your understanding of this material trait.
Mottainai in Action
Takaokaya’s “Second Life” initiative is deeply rooted in the Japanese concept of Mottainai (もったいない), a term that expresses regret over waste and embodies respect for both natural and cultural resources. It encourages mindful use, cherishing what we have, and making the most of it.
Through the “Second Life” collection, traditional Japanese heirloom garments are repurposed into new creations as Kangu. In doing so, Takaokaya honors the spirit of Mottainai, giving these valuable cultural artifacts a renewed purpose. Rather than remaining tucked away and unused, the garments are transformed into practical, beautiful items that can be appreciated and enjoyed in daily life.
Obi Collection of series 1
Each vintage obi belt is a pre-loved treasure sourced from across Japan, making every piece one-of-a-kind. Because these textiles are vintage, their exact origins and fabric compositions are unknown.
Due to their rich history, some fabrics may show gentle signs of wear, such as minor surface marks or light scuffs.
When cutting the fabric to craft our Ojami cushions, these subtle traces of time are sometimes preserved. Rather than viewing them as flaws, we at Takaokaya see these details as beautiful footprints of the past—a record of the story these fabrics carried before embarking on their second life in your home. We invite you to cherish these quiet features as part of your piece’s authentic journey.
*Includes a water-repellent finish.
Obi 1
This reversible obi belt is patterned with pine tree emblems. Known as matsu, the pine tree is an iconic symbol representing endurance, longevity, eternal youth, and celebration. You can choose to have your Ojami crafted entirely from either the green or white side, or combine both colors to create a striking duo-tone design.
Obi 2
Featuring housouge (宝相華文)—an intricate Buddhist motif composed of stylized floral elements—this design symbolizes elegance and spirituality. You can choose to craft your Ojami cushion entirely in this floral pattern or pair it with the reverse side of the obi belt to create a striking contrast.
Obi 3
At first glance, this appears to be a crisp white obi belt featuring gold-embroidered floral motifs. Up close, you will discover that the white fabric itself is woven with intricate textured patterns, known as jimon (地紋). The gold embroidery highlights classic Japanese spring flowers, ensuring each Ojami cushion displays its own unique set of these floral accents.
Obi 4
What sets this obi belt apart is its creative interpretation of the Shippo (七宝) motif—a classic pattern of endlessly interconnected circles. Here, the interlocking rings form an entirely new design, beautifully adorned with delicate floral accents. Meaning "Seven Treasures," Shippo references the sacred Buddhist treasures (gold, silver, lapis lazuli, crystal, pearl, coral, and agate) and symbolizes harmony, prosperity, and endless good fortune. Each Ojami cushion will be crafted to showcase this distinctive pattern.
Obi 5
Rendered in regal shades of orange and gold, this obi belt features the kanji Kotobuki (寿)—a classic character representing longevity, celebration, and good fortune. In Japan, orange symbolizes joy and warmth; historically, specific shades were reserved exclusively for the Crown Prince as a mark of prestige and noble status. Choose a duo-tone design combining the front and back for a bold, regal contrast, or select the main kanji pattern on both sides to bring lasting fortune into your space.
Witness the transformation
Each Ojami begins its journey as a cherished obi. See how these treasured fabrics are lovingly reborn into new forms of comfort and beauty.
M
I am based in the UK and this is my second online order from Takaokaya as I am in love with Ojami cushions (I plan to fill my house with them one day!) I was just so delighted. The second life Ojami are more beautiful than I could imagine when looking at the pictures of the obi. These are very special handcrafted pieces which bring me so much joy when I look at them or relax with them. Thank you to the wonderful staff at Takaokaya who made these beautiful cushions for me.
Hello Morag!
It's been exciting for us too working on the second life Ojami cushions. We are so glad that you are loving them and we look forward to the day when we fill your house with them too! :)
Thank you for sharing a picture of your exquisite vintage Obi belt Ojami Cushions.
Happy Kutsurogi!
Valery
Team Takaokaya
L
I have ordered several products from Takaokaya and each one is always crafted with care. This ojami is no exception and is work of art that you can enjoy relaxing with! I highly recommend this to anyone who was on the fence about ordering a second life ojami! The artisans at Takaokaya always know how to fully show off the fabric's beauty!
It's always a joy to see a familiar name back in our global online store as it affirms the craftsmanship and comfort of our products. Thank you for the 5* review Lauren and sharing pictures. We hope this unique second life Ojami cushion made from vintage obi belt will be the talking piece in your house.
Happy Kutsurogi!
Valery
Team Takaokaya
