Chirimen is a type of Japanese silk made using a traditional weaving technique. It is most commonly used to make exquisite kimono but it can also be used for a variety of traditional Japanese crafts including tsumami kanzashi.
Chirimen is made by alternating two types of silk thread, twisted in different directions. This creates the distinctive ridges in the fabric.

Close up of chirimen fabric.

Example of a kanzashi made from Japanese chirimen.

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Chirimen 1

Chirimen 2

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