Solving 3 Common Tatami Problems with a Craftsman's "Invisible Techniques"

2025年9月9日

Yuusuke Higuti

About the Author

Yusuke Higuchi
Certified First-Class Tatami Craftsman / Owner of Higuchi Tatami Shop
Trained at Sawabe Tatami Co., Ltd. in Kyoto, a workshop led by a "Contemporary Master Craftsman" honored with the Medal with Yellow Ribbon, before starting his own business in Edogawa, Tokyo.
Winner of the Kyoto Tatami Competition (Governor’s Award) / Holder of the National First-Class Tatami Craftsman License.
Extensive experience from temples and shrines in Tokyo’s Edogawa ward, to private homes, tea rooms, houseboats, and guesthouses.

National First-Class Tatami Craftsman Certificate

When you think of tatami mats, common concerns like "they're difficult to maintain," "they can get moldy," and "they attract dust" often come to mind. However, did you know that many of these issues can be solved by a tatami craftsman's "invisible techniques"?

A master craftsman pours their skill into the details that no one ever sees, all for the sake of a client's comfort and peace of mind. Here are three key techniques that separate a true expert from the rest.

1. Solving Gaps with the "One Bu" Adjustment Technique

Even in brand new homes, walls and floors often have subtle distortions invisible to the naked eye. Without accounting for these imperfections, a tatami installation can result in unsightly gaps.

We, as craftsmen, adjust tatami dimensions down to a unit called a "bu" (一分), which is just one-tenth of a millimeter.

This near-divine precision ensures a perfect, seamless fit against walls, preventing dust from accumulating and creating a level, safe floor that you won't stumble on. This meticulous work is the secret to a flawless installation.

2. Extending a Tatami's Lifespan with "One Stitch" Craftsmanship

A tatami mat is a significant investment, so you want it to last. While it's easy to judge a mat by its surface, its durability lies in its "one stitch" craftsmanship, a testament to the artisan's careful hand.

We, as craftsmen, take pride in our hand-stitching techniques that machines cannot replicate. We meticulously adjust the tension of each thread and the angle of the needle to suit the mat's condition.

We even employ an ancient technique known as "geta o hakaseru" (下駄を履かせる), which involves intentionally raising certain sections of the tatami that receive heavy foot traffic. Over time, these areas will settle, making the mat level and ensuring it lives a long, beautiful life.

3. Maintaining Beauty with "Corner and Frame" Reinforcement

The corners (隅) and exposed sides (框) of a tatami mat are the most susceptible to wear and tear. On modern, minimalist tatami without a border, this can significantly impact the mat's appearance.

To solve this, we reinforce these areas with materials like plastic or thick paper. This unseen reinforcement protects the mat from wear and keeps its beautiful, sharp shape for years to come.

Conclusion: Trust Is Found in "Invisible Techniques"

The three techniques we've discussed are things you will never see in your daily life.

However, these "invisible techniques" are what solve tatami's common problems and create a truly exceptional product. When choosing a tatami craftsman, don't just look at the surface. Ask about their techniques and their philosophy. That is the surest way to find a truly trustworthy professional.