Second Life: Series 11 !
The wait is over! Series 11 has officially dropped!
Ojami Cushion - Second Life: Series 5
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 5
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 21
Adorned with Kikkō Mon’yō (亀甲文様 / tortoiseshell hexagons) and Kumo (雲 / flowing clouds) against a muted silver, gold, and cream background, this vintage obi belt exudes refined, understated elegance. Each hexagonal motif is outlined in gold and detailed with intricate geometric patterns—including inner Kikkō, Hishi (diamonds), and Higaki (lattices)—in earthy tones of bronze, maroon, and green. Rich in symbolism, Kikkō represents longevity and happiness, clouds signify abundance, Hishi brings prosperity, and Higaki is traditionally believed to ward off evil.
Obi 22
The appeal of this obi lies in its vivid depiction of a mountain landscape glowing in the warm, rich hues of a sunset. The trees along the mountainside are rendered in shimmering shades of gold, creating a captivating and luminous scene. Japanese textiles frequently depict natural scenery, reflecting a deep reverence for the tranquility of the countryside and the timeless connection between humanity and the natural world.
Obi 23
Feminine and elegant, this champagne-pink obi belt features a harmonious, multicolored arrangement of irises, peonies, chrysanthemums, and wisteria. Sweeping Kumihimo (braided cords with tassels) wind gracefully across the fabric, enhancing its beauty with fluid curves while symbolizing everlasting prosperity for future generations. In Japanese culture, these interwoven cords also carry the cherished meaning of enmusubi—the weaving of meaningful connections and lasting bonds.
Obi 24
The large flowers on this obi create a dynamic, eye-catching impression with bold colors, lending a touch of retro charm to the design. These vivid blossoms stand out strikingly against a contrasting black and orange Kikkō Mon’yō (亀甲文様 / tortoiseshell) background. Within the geometric hexagons, delicate floral details represent beauty and vitality, balancing the bold pop art aesthetic with classic Japanese symbolism of longevity and enduring grace.
Obi 25
While the diamond pattern (Hishi) may appear simple, its origins run deep. Inspired by the resilient leaves and fruit of the water chestnut plant, this motif symbolizes robust health and prosperity for future generations. Up close, the white backdrop reveals a delicate Sayagata (紗綾形) pattern—a continuous weave of interlocking manji (卍) characters, an ancient Buddhist emblem representing peace, good fortune, and an unbroken family lineage.
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.
