Fukuromono [ Bags ]

Fujii Naoyuki

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Fukuromono is anything in the shape of a bag that can be used to carry things in general. For example, bags, pouches, and tobacco containers are all fukuromono.

The second generation head of Fuji Fukuromono opened a shop in Taito Ward in Tokyo. The current owner, Naoyuki, inherited it from his father and became the third generation head.

When the shop first opened, they were making tobacco containers that hang down over traditional Japanese clothing. As the culture changed from traditional Japanese clothing to Western clothing, the shop’s products also changed and instead of solely selling tobacco containers they started creating pouches and a variety of other merchandise.

With the changing times, Mr. Fuji noticed a change in the items people needed to carry inside fukuromono and as a result he began to adjust the size of the inner pocket of the bags and pouches. For example, older mobile phone models were small but now many people use smart phones and most people also use mobile phone cases which require a bigger sized pocket. There are also many people who have tablet cases and e-cigarettes. Many places don’t sell cases that hold e-cigarettes and tobacco together, but they seem to be quite popular.

In general, Fuji Fukuromono has many requests for special orders and orders from regular customers. Many neighbourhood associations and other groups like to order matching goods for their members.

Fukuromono are made from a variety of materials, such as ox hide, deerskin, and fabrics.
First, a paper pattern is drawn up and the materials for the fukuromono are cut alongside it. After that, a machine called, ‘kobasuki’, which makes it easier to sew leather goods, is used. Finally, a sewing machine is used to complete the product.

Production of fukuromono is done by Mr. Fuji. When orders require special lettering or picturing, silk screen printing is used to achieve the desired effect. He also has a lot of cooperation from craftsmen with other skills, such as braided cord craftsmen, to make the best products.

Many customers make inquiries after learning about his products from his blog, Twitter, or on the Web.

Mr. Fuji said, “I feel my job is worth doing when I see the reactions of customers who are pleased with the products I envisioned and made. Also, after they have used the product for some time and they come back and tell me how long-lasting it is. As I am doing all the work by myself I’m also the one who inspects the products. Above all, I feel a sense of responsibility for my products as their creator.”

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Long ver.
（If you would like to know more about the craft history, manufacturing process, tools, etc., please check this movie.）