Kakishibu PDF Guide
Dyeing: Apply directly to desired surface or dilute with water. After drying in the shade, repeat dyeing or expose to the sun for darker color.
Storage & Maintenance: Kakishibu is a "living" organic dye unlike synthetic chemicals. It contains high concentrations of natural tannins that continue to age and react over time. You may occasionally find thick, dark, jelly-like clumps (polymerization) in the package. Don't worry—this is a sign of high-quality, high-tannin Kakishibu and is not a defect.
How to fix it:
1. Place the sealed pouch in hot water (approx. 80°C / 176°F) for 20-30 minutes. This often melts the jelly back into a liquid state.
2. If some clumps remain, filter the liquid through a fine strainer or cheesecloth. The filtered liquid remains perfectly effective for dyeing and coating.
3. Please do NOT dispose of thick Kakishibu in the toilet or sink, as its natural hardening properties can cause plumbing issues. Dispose of any solid residue as organic waste.
Exposure to oxygen will harden the dye. To prevent the liquid from hardening due to oxygen exposure, follow these steps:
• After each use, gently squeeze the pouch to remove excess air.
• Store in a cool, dark place. Exposure to UV light and high temperatures accelerates the thickening process.
• Do not pour leftover or diluted liquid back into the original pouch.
