This series introduces the hidden craftsmanship that goes unnoticed in umbrellas.
Without further ado, here is the second umbrella part I will be introducing today: the paper top.
In the first episode, we will introduce you to the "jinkasa".
Click here for more details.
About Tengami
*Please check here for the names of umbrella parts.
"Boom! Boom!"
A loud noise reverberated across the ground.
Those who are unfamiliar with the sound may be surprised to hear it, but whenever I hear this sound, which has not changed since the old days, I always feel happy and nostalgic.
"The craftsmen are busy removing the paper linings today as well."
Open your umbrella and look up from the inside.
I think there is a jagged piece of cloth sandwiched between the frame of the ceiling and the umbrella cover (the sewn together umbrella fabric).
This is called "tengami."
Komiya Shoten uses fabric with the same color and pattern as the umbrella covers.
When viewed alone, it looks like a flower.
They are made by pressing a cutter into the umbrella dough, so they look like cookies, but in reality it is a very labor-intensive process.
The process of removing the top paper is done on a "stump" that has been passed down from successive craftsmen.
This table has been well-used and is quite interesting.
There is also a "mallet" that looks like it may bring good luck.
A "die" made of steel.
And then there's the "support block," shaped like a stamp that holds the mold down from above.
These are the so-called "Three Sacred Treasures" used when removing the Tengami paper.
And don't forget newspapers.
It acts like a cushion when cutting out the shape of the paper.
As mentioned at the beginning, when using these tools to forcefully remove the top paper, a loud noise is made that reverberates on the ground, so umbrella craftsmen who make umbrellas at home have come up with stories of ways to reduce the noise, such as removing the top paper before going to work, or removing it in their garden on sunny days.
Now, regarding the role of the "tengami," this small piece of fabric is used to prevent the umbrella fabric that comes into contact with the ribs from being damaged by friction.
If the jinbaori and chrysanthemum seat serve to protect the top of the umbrella from the outside, then the tenshi can be said to protect the umbrella from the inside.
It's easy to overlook at first glance, but the top paper is an important part used in most umbrellas.
I'm sure it also protects the inside of your umbrella.
Please check it out.
