Experience the art of zabuton making with a Japanese futon craftsman. Learn the traditional method of cotton stuffing and fabric stitching, and take home your finished zabuton in a kimono-style bag.
Experience the art of zabuton making with a Japanese futon craftsman. Learn the traditional method of cotton stuffing and fabric stitching, and take home your finished zabuton in a kimono-style bag.
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Futon Tokyo (Wataya Mori) - Experience the art of filling cotton and crafting your own unique zabuton (Japanese floor cushion).
Suitable for: Ages 18 and up
Participants will work on tatami mats in various positions. Please wear comfortable pants or bring your own.
Create a 50 cm (19.6″) square zabuton or an extra-thin organic pillow…
- Futon Tokyo (Wataya Mori) - Experience the art of filling cotton and crafting your own unique zabuton (Japanese floor cushion).
Suitable for: Ages 18 and up
Participants will work on tatami mats in various positions. Please wear comfortable pants or bring your own.
Create a 50 cm (19.6″) square zabuton or an extra-thin organic pillow measuring 62 x 43 cm (46″ x 27″).
Materials: Natural cotton filling and cotton fabric (inside out, with one side open and the other three sides already stitched closed).
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Wataire (Lay cotton on the fabric)
Spread the fabric on the tatami. Tear the first layer of cotton so it extends beyond the fabric on all sides. Place it on the fabric and add more layers of cotton crosswise, following the fiber directions. Trim excess cotton at specific points, placing it at the center to create thickness. Fold the cotton to match the fabric’s shape. -
Wataire (Wadding)
Fold the cotton with one hand and gradually turn the fabric over. Adjust the shape and smooth the surface. Secure all corners of the cotton to the fabric’s corners.
…and more…

- Azuma cotton bag
- All Fees and Taxes
- Tea and coffee
- Zabuton cushion or organic pillow you made
- Azuma cotton bag
- All Fees and Taxes
- Tea and coffee
- Zabuton cushion or organic pillow you made
- Private transportation
- Private transportation
Participants will be guided through the process of filling cotton into a zabuton, a traditional Japanese floor cushion. This method of stuffing cotton into the square fabric is uniquely Japanese. A skilled futon craftsman will demonstrate and teach this age-old tradition on a tatami mat. If time permits, participants will also learn how to stitch the…
Participants will be guided through the process of filling cotton into a zabuton, a traditional Japanese floor cushion. This method of stuffing cotton into the square fabric is uniquely Japanese. A skilled futon craftsman will demonstrate and teach this age-old tradition on a tatami mat. If time permits, participants will also learn how to stitch the fabric and attach tassels.
The completed zabuton can be taken home in a classic kimono-style bag crafted from leftover futon fabric, perfect for use on the plane journey home.
Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to observe other futon craftsmen at work, handcrafting a variety of traditional futons. These futons are custom-made not only for Japan but for clients worldwide.
This is a unique experience offered exclusively by Futon Tokyo, and participation is eagerly anticipated.
- You will work on tatami mats in a variety of positions. Please come in moveable pants style. Or bring your own pants.
- Masks are required to avoid inhaling cotton fibers.
- Cotton fibers will stick to your hair as well, so we recommend wearing a cap if this is a concern. Or wrap a cloth or towel around your head.
- Please be careful not to get too closer to the craftsman while they are using needles. The needle is a specialized tool for making zabuton, very thick and dangerous.
- We may publicize the workshop on our website and social networking sites. Your photos may also be featured. If you don’t like it, please let us know in advance.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.