Meet the Hands Behind Niwa Futonten | Demonstration
On 11th May, we held a meet and greet with the 5th generation of Niwa Futonten, Takuya Niwa.
During the demonstration, Takuya Niwa carefully explained the process of making the Kuributon Cushions, from sourcing and combining four types of cotton to the reasons behind the hand sewn details.
We enjoyed communicating and learning in-depth together with Takuya Niwa about the technique he has honed in the making of the Kuributon Cushions and notably, futons.
If you would like to watch the demonstration held in our Notting Hill Store, please find our recorded Instagram live.
About Niwa Futonten
The Nagoya-based futon maker Niwa Futonten has been preserving traditional bedding craftsmanship. Established 150 years ago, the family-run business has been hand producing their prized traditional bedding with the natural comfort of cotton and floss silk, using futon technology that can only be achieved by the gentle care of the craftsman’s hands.
The fifth-generation master craftsman Takuya Niwa has been awarded some of prestigious national prizes and awards. In 2023, Takya Niwa was awarded the "現代の名工 - Contemporary Master Craftsman Award", the youngest person to receive the award. It is considered quite rare to receive the award at his age.
Niwa Futonten, now lead by Takuya Niwa with a focus on traditional futon-making techniques updated to shape contemporary designs and offer aid for today’s bustling life.
Read more about Niwa Futonten on our Journal.
Niwa Futonten’s Speciality
Original Blend of Cotton
Four types of cotton with different fibre lengths and thicknesses are combined into a unique ratio to achieve the ideal level of elasticity and moisture retention.
The blended cotton is formed into the sheet shape and gently filled in one by one.
Skilled technique
Each step is carefully completed by the artisan. Four times worth of cotton compared to the finished cushion size is stretched and reinforced before being shaped using a specific technique into the beautiful cushion shape.
Niwa explained that only highly skilled craftsmen can handle this amount of cotton.
The Finished Cushion
We learnt from Niwa that the finishing hand sewn details of the cushion were not only for design purposes, but also specifically to hold the cotton in place to help the cushion to maintain its shape for lifelong use.
Daybed Futon
All of Niwa Futonten’s products are made by hand. Regarding the daybed futon, a 6 - 7 year wait period was originally needed to receive your completed Futon.
Futon mattresses support the weight of our bodies with the use of cotton layers with different hardness and elasticity. The result guarantees you a comfortable rest.