What is Tatami
Tatami is a kind of mat used as a flooring material in traditional Japanese style homes. It is made of woven rush grass around a rice straw core, and decorative cloth of edges. It is suited to the climate in Japan or Eastern Asia where it is high humid in summer and dry in winter. Tatami is pressed very tight and has many air pockets, which help absorbing water when it is humid and give out water when keep it dry. It give off a grassy, good herbal scent, especially on rainy or high humidity days.
History
Tatami was originally a luxury items for the nobility. It provided comfortable seating in the mainly wooden residences of the aristocracy. Over time, Tatami was adopted by the general population tor use in bedding and flooring. In Japan, Tatami traditionally covers the entire floor of a room. On the other hand, Tatami mattresses made by placing pieces of Tatami side by side have become very popular in outside of Japan.
Tips for Tatami
Tatami requires some maintenance to keep its condition as well. It is advised to turn over the covering to use its back side 3-5 years after the purchase. Then, the covering should be replaced 4-5 years after using the reverse side.
In addition, Tatami take the place of a rug and are used in the same way.
We offer the Tatami Covering, not the entire tatami mat. We use the term ‘tatami mat’ for simplification. Tatami Mats can be used alone, or can be used as something to place a cushion, such as futon on top of for added protection. Tatami mats can also be used outdoors on the grass as a natural ground cloth.
Kato’s Tatami offer systematized techniques and traditional craftsmanship that we can be obtained only through experience. Please feel free to contact us should you require any further information.
