Custom Noren for a Free Library in Azumino

I was recently commissioned to make a set of noren for a Free Library in Azumino, Nagano.

The fabric was selected by the client, and we discussed the size together before I began making them. Because this was my first time creating noren, I worked carefully through each step.

Although I had never made noren before, I already had the construction process clearly in mind, so I felt confident about how to approach it.

The biggest challenge was the size and weight of the fabric. It was much larger than the pieces I usually work with, which made the sewing process more difficult than expected.

Handling and guiding such heavy fabric through the sewing machine required patience and care.

But when the four finished panels were finally hanging together, I was genuinely moved by the result.

Most of my work at ENHANCE is created from vintage kimono, obi, yukata and other traditional fabrics, giving old textiles a new life.

This project was a little different.

It was not an upcycled piece, but it gave me the opportunity to make something that would become part of someone’s everyday space — something created for a place where people can gather, share books and spend time together.

That made me very happy.

For me, ENHANCE is not only about upcycling.

It is also about creating things that quietly become part of everyday life.

I hope to continue making pieces like this, while valuing the connection between textiles, people and the places where we live.

Thank you for trusting ENHANCE with this project.