Cloth for household use, made of a pure cotton fabric formerly used as mosquito netting (a specialty of Nara, Japan). Mosquito netting has declined in demand, due to changing lifestyles, but this manufacturer appreciated the fabric's absorbency and durability and reintroduced it in dishcloths. The cloths are large yet thin, easily folded for use and then spread out to dry. They can be used both to wipe away moisture and to keep one's home clean. Generously sized, the versatile cloths can dry tableware, cover or wrap things, and much more. Over time, the cloths become soft and supple, and eventually, they make good rags.

We wanted to make dishcloths with this local, 100% cotton fabric from Nara (a center of textile production) that was once a material for mosquito netting and feels great to use. Because we made the cloths large and thin, they can be used for tableware or containers of all sizes. This way, the cloths are also absorbent besides being easy to dry. Sewing two layers together makes the cloth resist tearing and gives it an attractive geometric pattern of linear stitches. We also chose the colors carefully, hoping they would grow on people as kitchen accessories that bring a little color to everyday tasks.

This is an easy to use cleaning cloth, developed when the Nara-based manufacturer took note of a local specialty product, mosquito netting. This was, of course, a concept aimed at regional revitalization, making use of mosquito netting, which was facing a decrease in demand. However, the major attraction was the fabric itself, large, but thin and light, yet strong. These large, thin cloths are suitable for cleaning containers of many shapes and sizes. When you fold them, they absorb water easily, and when spread out, they can be used for drying, so they have a double function. The colors have been selected with an artistic eye, and I think these cloths hold their own with any in the world, and may even be suitable as gifts.