Aqua Flax: A Unique Fabric Design by Junya Nakai

Unveiling the Beauty of Aqua Linen

Junya Nakai, a renowned designer known for his innovative approach to fashion, has unveiled his latest creation, Aqua Flax. This unique fabric, made from a traditional Japanese technique, aims to preserve and showcase the beauty of Japan's textile heritage.

Aqua Flax, also known as Aqua Linen, is made using a method that is not commonly found in Europe. By twisting the linen yarn strongly while wetting it with water, Nakai is able to create a fabric with small gaps on the surface. This results in a fresh and breathable material that provides a unique wearing experience.

"I wanted to bring attention to the traditional techniques of Japan and share them with the next generation," Nakai explains. "Aqua Flax is a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of our ancestors."

The Aqua Flax fabric is made from a combination of cotton and aqua linen. The weaving process is intricate, resulting in a fabric that resembles a patchwork cloth. Nakai's aim was to express a multitude of worlds through a single fabric, using double-faced weaving techniques to create complex patterns.

The Aqua Flax fabric measures 105 cm in width and 100 cm in length. Nakai has also created three additional production process samples to showcase the versatility of this unique fabric.

Designed specifically for summer dresses, Aqua Flax offers a soft and gauzy hand feel. The linen used in the fabric is a result of a traditional Japanese technique that has been passed down for centuries. Despite the strong twisted yarn, the woven fabric remains soft and comfortable against the skin.

The Aqua Flax project began in September 2013 in Kanagawa, Japan, and was completed in March 2014 in Shiga, Japan. Throughout the design process, Nakai faced various challenges, including creating a complicated pattern while adhering to the regulations of the weaving machine. However, his perseverance paid off, resulting in a fabric that beautifully captures the essence of patchwork.

With its natural and ethnic aesthetic, Aqua Flax is poised to attract a niche market of individuals who appreciate high-quality, unique fashion. Nakai believes that by offering products that embody sincere product development and exceptional quality, he can build a loyal customer base.

Junya Nakai's design philosophy revolves around using natural raw materials and drawing inspiration from the simplicity of nature. He aims to create designs that not only capture the visual beauty of natural elements but also replicate their textures and touch through the use of natural materials.

Aqua Flax has already garnered recognition in the design world, winning the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Textile, Fabric, Textures, Patterns, and Cloth Design category in 2015. This award recognizes the practicality, innovation, and professional standards upheld by Nakai's creation.

With Aqua Flax, Junya Nakai continues to push the boundaries of textile design, showcasing the rich heritage of Japan's traditional techniques while creating innovative and unique fabrics for the modern world.