About ohanacrats
Small steps, one at a time.
Ohanacrats is a small handmade studio based in Virginia, where vintage Japanese kimono fabrics are transformed into thoughtful everyday items.
I transform these fabrics into bags, pouches, accessories, and meditation pieces, bringing traditional textiles into modern everyday life.
The Story of Kimono Fabric
Traditional kimono fabrics are known for their intricate weaving, detailed dyeing techniques, and symbolic patterns. Many vintage textiles reflect the craftsmanship and artistic traditions of the time in which they were made.
Over the years, some kimono are no longer worn, even though their fabrics remain beautiful and durable. Repurposing these textiles allows their artistry to be appreciated in a new form rather than being forgotten or discarded.
Handmade With Care
Every Ohanacrats piece is handmade in Virginia using repurposed kimono fabric carefully selected for its pattern, texture, and character.
Because these fabrics come from vintage garments, each piece is one of a kind. My goal is to create practical, thoughtful items that celebrate the beauty of these textiles while giving them a new purpose.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name Ohanacrats carries a personal story.
In Hawaiian, “ohana” means family. In Japanese, “ohana” (お花) means flowers. Both meanings are close to my heart.
Ohanacrats began during the COVID pandemic, when I handmade and shared flower-themed fabric masks with others. Flowers, family, and care naturally became part of the brand’s identity.
The second part of the name, “crats,” represents supporters—people who appreciate handmade work and help keep traditional materials and craftsmanship alive.
Together, Ohanacrats represents a small community that values creativity, sustainability, and meaningful handmade objects.
About the Maker
Hi, I’m Ayu, the maker behind Ohanacrats.
I love imagining how things are made. When I watch a movie, I enjoy wondering how it was filmed while appreciating the story itself. When I see a photographer’s or artist’s work, I wonder how they captured their subject so beautifully. And when I see buildings or complex highway systems, I’m amazed by what human beings are capable of creating. I feel the same wonder toward everyday things like cars, cameras, computers, and so many other inventions.
These days, we’re surrounded by things that make our lives convenient, and we don’t always need to know how they’re made. Sometimes, I find myself thinking about the people and ideas behind the things we use every day.
When I sketch an idea on paper and turn it into a three-dimensional item that someone can use, I feel grateful to the generations of people whose inventions and craftsmanship made it possible. I’m also grateful to those who appreciate handmade goods and the care that goes into making them.
Thank you for supporting my work and giving these kimono fabrics a new purpose. Because of you, they can continue their journey and carry their stories into the future.
