Story of Cohana’s 5 Basic Colors: MIZUASAGI

Japan has more than 460 traditional colors, each named after the landscapes and natural beauty of the changing seasons.

From this rich palette, Cohana carefully selected five signature colors inspired by the beauty, culture, and aesthetic sensibilities of Japan.

For our products, we use simple color names such as Yellow, Pink, Green, Blue, and Gray. Each of these colors is inspired by a traditional Japanese color with its own unique name and story.

Discover the story of MIZUASAGI, one of Cohana's five signature colors, along with a selection of items in this beautiful shade. 

MIZUASAGI is a shade of green with a hint of light blue. It is a refreshing green reminiscent of the clear water of a mountain stream.    

MIZUASAGI is one of the traditional color names used in Japanese indigo dyeing. Traditionally, cloth was repeatedly soaked in a fermented indigo dye vat until the desired shade was achieved.

There is a saying Aiiro Shijuhachi Shoku which means "the 48 shades of indigo." This expression reflects the many different shades of blue found in Japanese indigo dyeing. The shades begin with a pale light blue and gradually deepen to navy blue, with the darkest indigo appearing almost black.

Shiraai is the name of the lightest, almost white, light blue color. It marks the beginning of the gradation of blue hues derived from indigo dyeing traditions.
Kamenozoki follows Shiraai and is characterized as a pale blue with a slight overlay of indigo dye. The name comes from the Japanese words "kame" (jar) and "nozoki" (peeking), signifying the delicate color seen when peering into a jar containing diluted indigo dye. This subtle tint is emblematic of the refined sensibility found in Japanese color naming and aesthetics.
Next comes MIZUASAGI, blending the freshness of green with the clarity of light blue.  

These hues, including Cohana's MIZUASAGI, reveal the Japanese appreciation for subtle gradations and the rich cultural sensibility embedded in traditional color names and practices. 

Adding a MIZUASAGI tool to your sewing collection brings a sense of tranquility and refreshment to your handwork time. Its delicate blue-green shade creates a calm atmosphere that encourages both creativity and enjoyment. 

You can also coordinate your sewing box with MIZUASAGI tools to create a beautifully harmonious collection.