MAITO DESIGN WORKS is a concept created by Komuro Maito - a designer with a passion for nature and craftsmanship.
Using natural dyes based on- and made from natural elements, he is committed to create beautiful products with a low environmental impact, that will encourage people to love nature and wear their products for a long time. Ingredients used include twigs, buds, bark, leaves, grasses, roots and flowers.
Their challenge was to create vibrant and bold colors, without the help of any artificial or synthethic chemicals. This natural dying method has a long history in Japan and mr. Maito is committed to continue to develop and share this art through his creations and by giving dying workshops all over Japan.
Natural Dye
One of MAITO's most succesfull series is the items dyed with natural Sakura. Whereas pink is a color most associated with sakura trees, the flowers actually give off a more orange-beige color and most brands end up just using a bit of synthethic dye to get the desired color. After a lot of trial and error, MAITO worked together with a natural dye specialist in Tokyo to find the secret recipe to extract a nice warm pink to dye with.
MAITO designs are created with these concepts
Craftsmanship
100% made in Japan by designers and knitters with passion and experience.
Organic Cotton
Natural Dye
Plantbased dyes free from heavy metals and chemical substances.
For Earth
Low environmental impact, protecting the earth and water of Japan.
Whole Garment
Minimal yarn, single-thread and zero-waste sewing (no fabric waste).
Upcycling
Using flowers and foods to dye that would otherwise go to waste.
Natural Materials
Natural materials like cotton, linnen and silk.
Vegan
Some series are specifically vegan, made of all-plant-based materials.