It took about 1.5-2 hours to take it all apart, but fortunately it was all hand-stitched and that always helps. Any kimono-type garments that have been machine stitched at some point are a nightmare to dismantle. Kimono are typically hand sewn of course, but from time to time I come across a vintage piece that has a mix of hand and machine work, and even then the hand stitching will often vary in style and color. This tells me that the work was probably done by more than one person and likely at different times.

But onto the pink! Here’s a glimpse of the deconstruction in process.

Note the nice, large, even stitches. Hooray!

Tools of the trade: seam ripper and needle nose pliers.

And this is all that remains… several full-width panels, a few narrow ones, some small scraps (this was a recycled kimono that had been creatively pieced into a small jacket) and a pile of pink and red thread. There are some barely noticeable patches too, very carefully stitched from the inside so you can’t see them without looking hard. I like those little surprises, as they show the owner cared for the garment and kept it wearable for as long as possible.

Next I’ll wash the fabrics and list them on eBay and Etsy. On to the next kimono!