Kakishibu - unripe persimmon tannin extract - Diospyros kaki

Kakishibu - unripe persimmon tannin extract - Diospyros kakiKakishibu Persimmon Tannin Dye Kaki () means persimmon, and Shibu () means astringent together, Kakishibu refers to the traditional Japanese tannin dye made from unripe persimmon fruits. Harvested at their peak tannin content, the fruits are crushed, fermented, and concentrated into a powder with nearly 95% tannin. Kakishibu has been produced in Japan since at least the 13th century and has a wide range of uses: dyeing fabrics and fishing nets,

柿渋 Kakishibu – Persimmon Tannin Dye

Kaki (柿) means persimmon, and Shibu (渋) means astringent — together, Kakishibu refers to the traditional Japanese tannin dye made from unripe persimmon fruits. Harvested at their peak tannin content, the fruits are crushed, fermented, and concentrated into a powder with nearly 95% tannin.

Kakishibu has been produced in Japan since at least the 13th century and has a wide range of uses: dyeing fabrics and fishing nets, finishing woodwork, stencil paper making, and even aiding in the production of sake. On textiles, Kakishibu is non-toxic and imparts water-resistance, antiseptic, insect-repellent, and mildew-proof properties.

Like henna, Kakishibu is an oxidation tannin; it deepens in shade under sunlight (UV exposure). Depending on the number of layers applied, the color ranges from pale tan to deep orange-brown. Post-mordanting with iron (ferrous sulfate) shifts the shades toward greys and blacks.

Did you know? In Japan, fishing nets were made water-resistant, antiseptic, insect-repellent, and mildew-proof by dyeing them with kakishibu. 

Active dye components: condensed tannins, gallotannins, catechin, shibuol
CI Natural Dye Number: none assigned

Shading Tips

• Layering: multiple coats deepen from light tan to dark orange-brown
• Sun exposure: oxidation in sunlight darkens the shade over time
• Iron mordant: produces dark greys to black
• On wood: enhances natural grain with warm, protective finish