ProtoType5 Pearl ◇W7-AKABENI, UMENEZU◇ Ichimatsukoshi

💎【Prototype】Fortuna Pearl 7mm Width: A Geometric Pattern Bag Expressed with Narrow Material

This piece is a prototype luxuriously crafted using "Fortuna Pearl (7mm width)," a material characterized by its silky smooth texture and elegant, pearl-like luster.
The main body utilizes the narrow 7mm 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 7mm width
Size: Designed with dimensions of 25 squares wide x 8 squares deep x 20 squares high (based on dot rows). The dimensions are well-balanced, considering practicality despite using a narrow material./li>
Design: The narrowness of the material allows the geometric patterns to exhibit a more intricate and delicate appearance, while the luster enhances the elegance.

【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.

Challenge and Lesson: New Possibilities Born from the Fine *Ichimatsu* "Prototype Five"

The challenge for this prototype began with a simple question: "What would happen if I wove a *Ichimatsu* (checkerboard) pattern using a narrow width?"。

Difficulty of the Prototype and Production Interruption

However, I keenly realized that weaving a fine *Ichimatsu* pattern while minimizing gaps in the weave was extremely difficult with my skill level at the time (August 2019). The result reinforced the importance of the fundamental manufacturing principle: "Don't cling to what you can't do; start with what you can."
Furthermore, I prioritized the website construction work during the middle of production (renewal completed on August 13, 2020), which led to an interruption of about a year before completion.

The Big Discovery a Year Later: New Handle Technology

However, resuming work after this period of interruption ultimately led to a major discovery. That was the new handle idea combining "12-strand round braid, 6-strand braid, and flat weave."
his became a unique handle weave possible precisely because of the soft texture of the "Fortuna Pearl" material itself.

Handle Reinforcement and Innovation

For the core of this handle, I used a clear vinyl hose (10mm outer diameter), which is typically used as a cover for PP band handles. Furthermore, the rivets (metal fittings) were also passed through this core material to significantly reinforce the handle's strength.
This is truly a method that "anyone could think of, but perhaps no one has actually done." This simple innovation proved to be a very valuable discovery that will make future manufacturing even more enjoyable.
Although it took time to complete, this prototype is filled with anticipation for the future, having yielded many lessons and new ideas.

The Fate of the Prototype

This prototype (Product Code: FMW07-CLT05) was not put up for sale. After the product description was posted, it was given as a gift with gratitude to someone who is always supportive.

Frequently Asked Questions