This listing is for a single vintage Japanese katagami stencil used to create tenugui hand towels. Read below to learn more about katagami stencils.

Bold brushstrokes take center stage in this striking vintage Japanese katagami stencil, featuring expressive calligraphy arranged in a flowing diagonal composition. The sweeping black characters vary from delicate, graceful marks to thick, dramatic strokes, creating a beautiful sense of rhythm and movement against the open background. Designed for printing traditional tenugui towels, this stencil celebrates the artistry of Japanese brush lettering.

The intricate calligraphy is formed through carefully cut openings supported by a fine mesh screen, allowing even the smallest brushstroke details to be reproduced on fabric. The contrast between the delicate screen and bold lettering highlights the remarkable precision required to translate handwritten calligraphy into a textile stencil.

This stencil measures 48 x 18 inches and shows signs of age and use, including surface scuffs, discoloration, and wear along the dark outer border and corners. The calligraphy design and supporting mesh appear largely intact.

These stencils are still usable but would need a gentle touch.  More suitable for framing.

Tenugui have been made for decades as sight-seeing souvenirs or as promotional or thank-you gifts given by companies, municipalities, banks and the like to employees and patrons. Tenugui stencils are much like the ones used to make kimono, but these are longer and each is used to make a full length tenugui. The dye process is also different from kimono fabric dyeing.

Japanese katagami stencils are traditional tools used to create intricate patterns on textiles, particularly kimono fabrics. Hand-cut from layers of washi paper treated with persimmon tannin (kakishibu), the paper becomes strong, flexible, and water-resistant, allowing the stencils to withstand repeated use in the dyeing process. Each stencil showcases the artistry and precision of Japanese craftsmanship, with designs ranging from delicate florals and geometric patterns to symbolic and nature-inspired motifs. Once practical tools for textile production, these vintage stencils are now appreciated as collectible works of art, beautiful for framing, display, or creative projects.

View the video below to see how katagami stencils are designed, cut, and used.