U.T.O.
Manufacturing by UTO craftsmen in Iwate
A cashmere craftsman from Michinoku, Japan's snowy country.
We create things with tenacity, care, and heart.
Facing cashmere all year round,
Cashmere specialists.
UTO's own factory is located in Kitakami City, Iwate Prefecture, which is blessed with four rich seasons.
Therefore, cashmere craftsmen specialize in the material cashmere and make products with sincerity.
We create each piece of cashmere knit one piece at a time, using the refined craftsmanship, tenacity of Tohoku people, and careful attention to detail.
By performing all processes in-house, we take responsibility for all aspects of manufacturing and are particular about every process.
``Manufacturing with a visible face'' is UTO's pride.
匠の技
The world's only cashmere knit, finished by all our artisans.
Tightly knitted fabric “Growing cashmere”
UTO's cashmere knits do not purposely aim to be fluffy when new.
The fabric is tightly knitted, with the idea that it will become fluffier the more you wear it and wash it for years.
We hope that you will enjoy spending time with us and using it as ``Cashmere that grows.''
``Liking'' connects each eye at a glance
``Linking'', in which small stitches are connected by hand without relying on machines, is an advanced technique that only skilled craftsmen can perform.
For example, ``linking'' is what ``supports the expansion and contraction'' of the neck part of a sweater that is worn over the head.
The knit does not shrink or lose its shape even after washing, and the seams feel comfortable against the skin.
"Shukuju" creates a soft texture
The washing process used to soften cashmere is called shukuju.
As fulling causes some shrinkage, we calculate and knit all the conditions, keeping in mind the weather, temperature, humidity, yarn, weight, and desired texture.
In order to create the perfect size, we perform the shukuju process with great care.
“Natural drying” is gentle on cashmere
While it is common to use a dryer to dry a large amount of knitwear in a short time, UTO is particular about "natural drying" for all of its items.
Each piece is shaped and dried in the sunlight and natural wind.
We handle the delicate material of cashmere with utmost care and gentleness.
Finishing touches, meticulously applied by hand.
To ensure it arrives in the best possible condition, each item is carefully ironed to the correct dimensions.
If we were to stretch the knit over a mold as is typically done, and then apply intense steam to set the size, the knit might shrink back when washed due to the stress it endured.
We meticulously craft each cashmere knit from start to finish, always imagining the comfort you will feel when you wear it.
