TSUYAMA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In an era which is subject to fast fashion and mass produced clothing, a small Japanese necktie manufacturer are branching out to the world through a new Kickstarter project. This Kickstarter challenge is not just about creating a necktie, but also about the passion, craftsmanship, and warm stories that connect people.
Over their many years, this family-run factory has been uncompromising in its careful sewing, high-quality fabrics, and timeless designs. However, this factory’s journey is not limited just to the creation of neckties. More than that, they have continued to make items that deeply touch people’s hearts.
Two unforgettable events in the company’s history
The founder of Shakumoto Housei, Tatsuhiro Shakumoto, has two events in recent years that have stuck with him. The first occurred when one day a single extremely worn-out tie arrived at the factory. A note from the owner of the tie, a customer in his 60s, accompanied this tie. It read, “I want to be able to tie this tie once more.”
The tie was understood to have some special meaning to this customer by the factory’s craftsmen, so they took great care to tailor and repair the tie and then returned it to the customer. A few days later, they received a grateful phone call from the customer. During this phone call, the customer explained “When the necktie was returned, it was like my late wife who passed away last year has given me a present once more. I’m so extremely grateful.”
Upon hearing these words, the factory staff were moved to the bottom of their hearts and felt a renewed sense of pride in their craftsmanship.
The second event that is unforgettable is the fact that in 2022, the factory’s necktie was chosen to be given as a gift to the President of the United States, Joe Biden. This special tie, which was made to match the quality of the President’s suit, not only made the person who gave the gift proud but also made the craftsmen who made the tie extremely proud as well. This experience made us realise that Japanese craftsmanship and passion is world-class.
The Challenge on Kickstarter
This Kickstarter project is an assortment of ties that is the culmination of the skills of Japanese craftsmen that have been cultivated over many years, and new designs that can be enjoyed by everyone. These ties are not just simple accessories but are intended as symbols that connect people to one another.
“Neckties aren’t simple fashion items, but I believe that they are personal items that are made to show off your self-confidence.” states the third-generation owner, Tatsuhiro Shakumoto. “With this project, it’s a chance to spread our philosophy to the world, and we want backers to become a part of this story.”
Special Rewards that Backers will receive
- Limited Rewards: Neckties that use premium fabric that is limited to Kickstarter are available as special rewards
- A Link to the World: Share the joy of supporting a small local manufacturer that has a rich tradition
The Kickstarter campaign is live until January 3rd 2025 23:59 JST. The makers at Shakumoto Housei would like people worldwide to participate in this campaign where they are challenging themselves to bring true Japanese craftsmanship to backers. The necktie is not just an accessory, but a bridge to connect people together.
For more information, please visit the project page[https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/shakunone/the-shakunone-tie-a-nishijin-ori-silk-tie?ref=aumrqk]
