What Is “Karakuri” in Tatami Making?

A Traditional Kyoto Technique Explained by a Japanese Craftsman

About the Author

Yusuke Higuchi

Nationally Certified First-Class Tatami Master Owner of Higuchi Tatami Shop, Tokyo

Yusuke Higuchi is a premier tatami craftsman based in Tokyo, Japan, dedicated to delivering authentic Japanese comfort to homes worldwide. He perfected his craft in Kyoto under the tutelage of a "Contemporary Master Craftsman" (Medal with Yellow Ribbon recipient), mastering the millimeter-level precision required for temples and high-end tea rooms.

• 🏆 Award: Winner of the Kyoto Tatami Competition (Governor’s Award)
• 📜 Certification: National Level 1 Tatami Craftsmanship (The highest in Japan)
• 🌎 Global Service: Specializing in custom-made tatami mats for international shipping.

Hello, this is Yusuke Higuchi from Higuchi Tatami Shop in Tokyo, Japan.

In this article, I would like to introduce one of the most fundamental yet essential techniques in tatami making:

👉 “Karakuri” (also known as “Kagari”)

Although this process is rarely known outside the industry,
it plays a critical role in the durability and finish of tatami.

Watch the Actual Craftsmanship

Watch how traditional tatami craftsmanship works behind the scenes.

What Is “Karakuri”?

“Karakuri” is a technique used to secure the edges of a tatami mat.

👉 It involves stitching the vertical threads of the tatami surface (igusa mat) with hemp thread.

This process may seem simple, but it has a major impact on both functionality and appearance.

Why This Technique Developed in Kyoto

“Karakuri” is commonly used in Kyoto, and there is a clear reason for this.

👉 Kyoto has a humid climate due to its basin geography.

Because of this, tatami mats are more prone to mold and deterioration.

If the tatami surface is folded inward (a common method),

• Moisture can accumulate
• Mold may develop
• The material can deteriorate

👉 As a result

👉 It becomes difficult or impossible to flip the tatami later

To prevent this, “karakuri” secures the tatami surface at the same level as the base (tatami core), rather than folding it inward.

This allows:

• Better air circulation
• Reduced risk of mold
• Easier thickness adjustment when flipping the tatami

👉 It is a highly rational technique developed for specific environmental conditions

Another Important Effect: Tightening the Tatami Surface

“Karakuri” also helps tighten the tatami surface.

Without this process, the surface may become slightly loose over time.

By applying karakuri:

• The surface becomes firm
• Wrinkles are reduced
• The overall finish becomes cleaner

👉 This small step makes a significant difference in quality

The First Technique I Learned in Kyoto

When I trained in Kyoto,
“Karakuri” was one of the very first techniques I was taught.

At that time,

👉 It took me more than 5 minutes to complete one tatami (Kyoma size).

My master and senior craftsmen would often say:

“You’re too slow. You won’t make it like that.”

Although the process looks simple,

👉 it is truly the foundation of tatami craftsmanship

Why I Still Use This Technique Today

I continue to use “karakuri” even in modern and international projects.

Especially for:

👉 Foldable tatami mats

These types of tatami are:

• Thinner
• More prone to warping
• Easier to loosen

👉 Therefore, precise control and tension are essential

Many manufacturers use:

• Glue
• Adhesives

to fix the tatami surface.

However,

👉 these methods can weaken the vertical threads over time

For this reason,

👉 I use the traditional “karakuri” technique instead

👉 It is an invisible detail, but it greatly improves durability

Summary

“Karakuri” is not just a simple edge-finishing process.

It contributes to:

• Moisture control
• Long-term durability
• A clean and precise finish

👉 It is one of the essential techniques that define high-quality tatami

Final Thoughts

Tatami craftsmanship is a field where

👉 the true quality lies in what you cannot see

By watching the video and understanding the process,
I hope you can feel the depth of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

👉 We offer custom tatami, replacements, and international shipping.
Please feel free to contact us.

Higuchi Tatami Shop – Tokyo, Japan

▶︎Higuchi Tatami Shop - Contact Form for International Customers