Indigo-dyed armor fades, giving it a sense of age. On the other hand, it can also look shabby. Since dignity and style are important in competitions and judging, the texture of the armor has a significant impact on the judging results. In this article, we will introduce the basics of re-dyeing armor to restore its texture.

Indigo is the color of the samurai and the color of Japan

Indigo is the color of choice for kendo armor, but its history is incredibly long, with humans reportedly using it for dyeing since prehistoric times. During the Kamakura period, samurai favored deep indigo dye, known as "kachi-iro" (victory color) or "katsu-iro" (victory color), and it was used as a symbol of victory in battle. This led to indigo dye becoming a samurai color, and by the Muromachi period, it had spread to the clothing of ordinary people. During the Russo-Japanese War of the Meiji period, indigo dye was also called "gunkachi-iro" (military victory color) because military uniforms were navy blue. Indigo dye strengthens thread and has numerous benefits, including deodorizing, antioxidant, antibacterial, and insect repellent properties. In addition to its superior functionality, indigo has also been passed down through the generations as a symbol of the samurai spirit. Furthermore, British scientist Robert W. Atkinson, who visited Japan during the Meiji period, saw the Japanese people's extensive use of indigo-dyed clothing and curtains, and praised it, calling it "Japan blue." Lafcadio Hearn, a famous novelist who also came to Japan during the Meiji period (many people may have heard of him as Koizumi Yakumo), also wrote the following: "Small houses with blue roofs, small storefronts with blue curtains, and in front of them smiling little salesgirls in blue kimonos." As Lafcadio Hearn wrote, Japan must have seemed to foreigners at the time to be "a country filled with a mysterious blue."

Why re-dye?

While it is considered preferable to wear dark-colored uniforms, hakama, and protective gear for matches and promotion examinations, this is not stipulated in the Kendo Match and Refereeing Rules. Regarding kendo equipment, the use of men, kote, do, and tare is required. Regarding clothing, the only rule is that kendo uniforms and hakama are required. Dressing has a significant impact on matches and examinations. While this rule is not officially stipulated, it is an unspoken understanding. Since protective gear is designed to protect the body, it is essential that it is worn correctly. Dressing correctly also shows respect for the opponent. Dressing poorly will not leave a good impression on the referee or judges. A fade-free uniform, hakama, and protective gear also contribute to a beautiful appearance. However, it is not recommended to suddenly enter a match wearing brand new gear. Wearing brand new protective gear, uniform, and hakama will not blend in with your body, and it will be difficult to perform at 100% in a match or examination in that condition. It is important to wear the uniform, hakama, and protective gear you will use in a match or examination once before the actual event to get used to them. There is no official rule that the color of your protective gear will cause you to lose a match or fail an examination, but if you have even the slightest cause for concern, it is best to dispel it. Beautiful protective gear can also inspire you. If you are passionate about a match or examination, why not pay some attention to your protective gear?

Before re-dyeing

We recommend washing your armor or having it dry cleaned before re-dyeing it. If there is any dirt or salt remaining on it, the color may not be absorbed properly and the finish may not look good. Even if washing is too much trouble, you can at least remove the dirt with a tightly wrung out tenugui cloth.

What you need

・Indigo liquid ・Indigo stopper ・Brush ・Thin paintbrush ・Brush ・(Spray bottle) ・Container for indigo liquid ・Vinyl gloves ・Newspaper ・Clothes that you don't mind getting dirty

Once indigo stains, it is difficult to remove. If you don't want to get dirty, lay down newspaper, wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and wear plastic gloves, so be sure to be fully prepared. A paintbrush is used to dye the entire garment, while a thin brush or paintbrush is used to dye the finer details. Using a spray bottle will allow you to dye the garment in less time and prevent uneven coloring. However, be careful as the mist of indigo liquid may splash in unexpected places. If you want to prevent color fading after dyeing, it is a good idea to use an indigo fixative. This will help the indigo color last longer and maintain the texture.

Precautions

• Indigo liquid oxidizes when exposed to air, so once opened, try to use it up as soon as possible.
• Using indigo solutions from different manufacturers at the same time may result in uneven coloring. When re-dyeing, use indigo solutions from the same manufacturer.
• If you use it on the inside of a face mask, it may stick to your face even after it dries. For this reason, it is a good idea to wipe it lightly before use to make sure the color does not come off (although there is still a chance that it may stick to your face due to sweat after practice).
• Both the indigo solution and the indigo stopper are available in two types: one that is used as is, and one that is diluted with water. Please read the product instructions carefully. *The re-dyeing procedure shown is for the type that is diluted with water.

Re-dyeing procedure

Here we will introduce the basic steps for re-dyeing.

1. preparation

To prevent the indigo liquid from splashing, lay newspaper over the area where you will be re-dyeing (a large plastic sheet will also work). Dilute the indigo liquid with water by half and place it in a container. Place the armor to be dyed nearby and you're ready to go.

2. Dyeing

Start by dyeing using a brush or paintbrush. Dyeing along the stitching will give a nice finish. If a film remains, the finish will be poor. A film is likely to form if you apply the paint roughly, so start by applying it gradually. In particular, small decorative areas are likely to have areas that are not dyed or have a film, so use a thin brush and dye carefully. It is more effective to use a brush for the tsutsuki-dare and yojin-dare of the mask, the kera (gloves) around the kote-himo (hand guards), and the name around the mask. Once everything is dyed, smear the paint with a brush. In this case too, a film is likely to remain in the small areas, so smear the paint carefully.

3. Layering

The color may seem dark immediately after dyeing, but it will settle down as it dries. If there are areas where the color is lighter, apply a second coat to make it even.

4. Indigo stop

Once it is completely dry, rub in the indigo dye all over the surface. Once you've finished applying it, let it dry again.

summary

Re-dyeing armor can restore a beautiful appearance to faded and shabby armor. Re-dyeing is not that difficult as long as you prepare the necessary items beforehand. If you are worried about the fading of your armor, why not give it a try? You may be able to rediscover the beauty of indigo.

BUSHIZO's partner, Kensen, offers a professional "indigo dye remake" service.

Please apply for each piece of protective gear here .