What is the difference between high-end fans? Characteristics, how to tell them apart, and recommended products.
Folding up small and easy to carry, fans can be used not only to match a cool yukata or kimono, but also for everyday use to keep cool. In recent years, they are available at reasonable stores and in a variety of price ranges. When using it as a fashion item or giving it as a gift to a loved one, you want to choose a fan with a luxurious and fashionable design. In this issue, we will introduce the characteristics of high-class fans, points to consider when selecting one, and recommended products.
What is the difference between high quality fans? Characteristics and how to distinguish between them
A high-class fan is a high-quality, expensive fan made with particular attention to the materials used. It is made with delicacy and care down to the smallest detail, and the skillful workmanship of the craftsman shines through. First, let us introduce the characteristics and how to distinguish a high-class fan.
Difference in materials used for the frame and the number of pieces
In most cases, bamboo is used for the frame of a high-class folding fan. It is possible to identify a high-class product by the number of the middle bone and what kind of bamboo is used.
High-grade fans are made mainly from the outer, strong and flexible part of the bamboo. The number of middle bones also tends to increase in price as the number of bones increases. It can be said that a high-end fan is characterized by its solid weight, and this is due to the greater number of middle bones and the stronger bamboo used.
With or without "tame
The thickest bamboo at both ends of the fan, which is sandwiched between the middle bone, is called the "oyabone. High-quality folding fans are generally made by applying heat to the main bone and warping it slightly inward. This process is called "tame" and is done to close the tip of the fan tightly or to make it fit better when it is closed. However, since cloth fans are made of thicker fabric, "tame" is sometimes not made.
Fabric of a fan
The fan part can be made of various materials such as cloth, paper, or wood, but in general, paper fans are considered more luxurious. Paper fans are made by laminating three layers of Japanese paper called "jishi" on the middle bone and inserting the fan bone into it. It is very time-consuming to make, but it is characterized by its beautiful finish without exposing the bone when viewed from the back.
Smell when you fan it
The higher the quality of the fan, the more pleasant the fragrance when you fan it, because the bones and fabric are made of high quality materials. Popular sandalwood fans are characterized by their elegant fragrance and beautiful design. It is made of thin wooden boards without paper or cloth, and is called an ita-fan. The chic and gorgeous design is impressive, made by thinly shaving aromatic sandalwood and openworking it.
Characteristics of high-end folding fans
The surface part of a fan is called a fan surface, but high-class fans are not divided according to the difference of fan surfaces. It is important to understand the characteristics of each material in order to choose the right one, as you can enjoy various textures and textures depending on the material.
Characteristics of paper folding fans
Paper fans are made by attaching fabric from both sides so that the middle bone is sandwiched between the two, so you can enjoy beautiful patterns from any angle. It is folded tightly and fits well when closed. Another advantage is that since the bones are not inserted all the way to the tip, a strong breeze can be generated using the shininess. On the other hand, since it is made of paper, it is low in water and prone to fading due to sunburn compared to a cloth fan.
Characteristics of cloth fans
There are a wide variety of cloth types used, including those made of silk and polyester. Depending on the design, they can match both traditional kimono and casual clothing, as well as mature atmospheres. Plain and simple designed fans are perfect for business occasions. The wide variety of designs for men, women, and both men and women is also an attractive feature.
Fans that use thin silk or cloth only for the fan surface are very cool and have a translucent feel. However, since the cloth can only be applied to one side, it does not produce much airflow. It is also thicker and tends to spread folds more easily than paper. The fabric is generally applied to only one side, and the back side reveals the framework, which can be a drawback. Since the fabric is made of cloth and easily soiled, it must be handled with care.
In addition, there are various types of folding fans depending on the material and use. In addition, there are many different types of fans, such as Edo and Kyoto fans, which are branded according to their place of origin, and men's and women's fans in different sizes. If you would like to know more details, please refer to this related article.
Main Types of Sensu｜Classification by Material, Use, Place of Origin, Size, and Proper Usage
Ibasen's recommended high-class folding fans
Ibasen offers a wide variety of high-class folding fans that are perfect as a reward for yourself or as a gift for your loved ones. Please take a look at the different materials used and the charm of each design.
What is Ibasen?
Ibasen is a long-established manufacturer of fans, folding fans, and Japanese paper products with a history of over 430 years. Our high-end fans are made of carefully selected domestic bamboo and Japanese paper and crafted by skilled artisans. Since the mid-Edo period, we have been transmitting the culture of the good old days in Nihonbashi. The charm of our products is that we have a large selection of fans, from high-class Edo fans with traditional techniques to hand-towel fans with casual designs. We hope you will find our high-class fans useful as cool fashion items and as gifts for your loved ones in various gift-giving occasions.
Characteristics of Ijasen's fans
Ibasen incorporates Edo culture into the design and color of its fans. This is because we want to inherit the good old traditional Japanese culture and Edo culture through our products. As a publisher of ukiyoe prints, Ibasen has been producing products featuring the works of popular ukiyoe artists such as Hiroshige Utagawa and Kuniyoshi Utagawa. Even today, Ibasen continues to produce ukiyo-e Edo fans in addition to traditional patterns and hanji-mono. Please take a look at Ibasen's fans, which convey the humor, rebellious spirit, and chic spirit typical of the Edo people.
Discover the difference between the different types of high-class fans and choose your favorite one!
We have introduced the different types of folding fans and their respective characteristics. High-grade folding fans are recommended not only as a fashion item but also as a gift for your loved ones. A luxury fan from a well-established brand will not only look beautiful, but also be comfortable to use. Please take a good look at the differences in materials and patterns, and try to find your favorite fan.