ProtoType6 Pearl ◇W6-RURIIRO, ASAGIIRO◇ Ichimatsukoshi

💎【Prototype】Fortuna Pearl 6mm Width: A Bag of Delicate Luster and Geometric Patterns

This piece is a prototype luxuriously crafted using "Fortuna Pearl (6mm width)," a material characterized by its silky smooth texture*and elegant, pearl-like luster.
The main body utilizes the narrow 6mm material*and combines Harlequin Check*and Diagonal Check (Ichimatsu Check)*patterns, expressing a geometric pattern that is both delicate and three-dimensional through a unique method.

🌟 Commitment to Design and Specifications

【Body Design】

Material: Fortuna Pearl 6mm width
Size: Designed with dimensions of 29 squares wide x 10 squares deep x 22 squares high (based on dot rows). The size secures a capacity suitable for daily use, despite the narrow material width.
Design: The narrowness of the material allows the geometric patterns to exhibit a more intricate and delicate appearance.

【Handle Specifications】

Material: Woven with Fortuna Pearl 4mm width material in the same color as the main body.
Feature: Using the same glossy material as the body adds a sense of unity and premium quality to the overall look.
Attachment: Firmly secured with φ 9 double-sided rivets, balancing both design aesthetic and durability.

Lessons Learned and New Techniques Gained from Prototype "CLT06": The Challenge of Fine *Ichimatsu*

he challenge for this prototype began with my curiosity: "What kind of finish would I get if I wove an *Ichimatsu* (checkerboard) pattern using a narrow width material?"

Learning from Difficulty

The result was the painful realization that achieving the *Ichimatsu* pattern while minimizing gaps in the weave with a narrow width was impossible with my skill level at the time (August 2019). This experience reaffirmed the importance of the fundamental manufacturing attitude: "Do not stubbornly cling to what you cannot do; proceed surely with what you can."
Furthermore, because I prioritized the website renewal work during production (renewal on August 13, 2020), completion took about a year, involving a period of interruption.

The Birth of the Unique Handle

However, resuming production after this interruption led to a major technical innovation. That was the new handle idea combining the "12-strand round braid, 6-strand braid, and flat weave."
This became a unique handle weave that was only possible by maximizing the soft texture of the "Fortuna Pearl" material. Furthermore, the structure for securely fixing the handle at the bifurcated (forked) section branching off the main body was established simultaneously.

Handle Reinforcement and Clever Ingenuity

For the core of the handle, I adopted a clear vinyl hose (10mm outer diameter), which is typically used as a cover for PP band handles. Moreover, the rivets (metal fittings) were passed through this core material, significantly reinforcing the handle's strength.
This method is a unique approach that "anyone might think of, but few would actually execute." Although it took time to complete, this prototype proved to be a highly valuable step that will make future manufacturing more enjoyable and appealing.

The Fate of the Prototype

This prototype (Product Code: FMW06-CLT06) was not put up for sale. After the product description was posted, it was presented with gratitude to someone who is always supportive.

Frequently Asked Questions