This pillow pattern features a vintage Japanese tsumugi silk from an unused fabric bolt created for a Kimono and Haori set. It dates from the mid to late Showa era (1926-1989). Technique: weave. Colors are black and shades of red. Tsumugi silk originated with farmers who made use of cocoons left over after they shipped their best silk to market. They would collect the floss from the cocoons, spin it by hand pulling it (tsumugi) into thread, and weave Kimono for themselves and their families. Before weaving, starch is applied to the thread to make it smoother and keep it from unraveling. This results in a crisp hand to the fabric which softens with wear of the Kimono, conforming to the body of the owner over time. Tsumugi silk is also characterized by sparse tiny slubs, giving it a simple rustic feeling. The production of tsumugi became an important local industry in nearly every prefecture in Japan. Particularly well known are tsumugi from Yuki, Oshima, Kumejima, and Tokamachi, but there are may others as well. Though very expensive today, Kimono made from tsumugi silk are worn only for informal gatherings at home, shopping, traveling, or informal visits to friends.  

References: 

Yamanaka, Norio. The Book of Kimono: A Complete Guide to Style and Wear. Kodansha International, Ltd, 1982.