KIBISO Silk Huge Throw

This throw is woven entirely from KIBISO silk, the outermost layer of the cocoon produced by golden silk worms. KIBISO yarn is characterized by its uneven thickness, textured surface, and subdued luster. Because it is difficult to handle and inefficient for standardized production, it has historically been regarded as unsuitable for industrial weaving and often classified as "silk waste."

This classification, however, reflects the limitations of industrial systems rather than a lack of material value. Outside of uniform manufacturing, KIBISO reveals qualities that cannot be replicated by refined silk yarns.

The Silkworm Cycle

Golden silk worms are raised through a natural cycle that spans approximately two to three months.

From egg to cocoon, their growth follows a steady rhythm shaped by climate and season. Once the cocoon is formed, the outermost layer—KIBISO—is carefully reeled by hand. Not all cocoons are used for weaving; a portion is preserved to allow the next generation to emerge, continuing the cycle.

About the Yarn

KIBISO silk is traditionally reeled by hand, a process still practiced in rural villages of Northern Thailand.

Because KIBISO is taken only from the outermost layer of the cocoon, the amount of usable yarn obtained from each cocoon is limited compared with the inner filaments used for standard silk reeling.

The yarn's thickness varies continuously, making it incompatible with mechanical uniformity. Rather than correcting these variations, they are treated as inherent characteristics of the material itself.

Weaving Process

At our studio, the yarn is handwoven on traditional Thai looms.

The fabric is constructed with a substantial structure and moderate weight, allowing it to function both as a wearable textile and as an throw. The weaving emphasizes natural irregularities, creating depth, movement, and a tactile surface rather than visual perfection.

Material Characteristics

Golden silk worms are native to regions with intense sunlight and high humidity.

KIBISO silk is known to retain a higher amount of sericin compared to fully refined silk yarns. Depending on processing and finishing methods, the material has been noted in various studies and traditional practices to exhibit moisture-related and protective characteristics.

Rather than defining these qualities as fixed functions, we understand them as part of the material's natural behavior—responding to climate and environment rather than resisting it.

Ebony Dye

The fabric is dyed using an ebony fruit dyeing method, a traditional practice in Northern Thailand.

The fruit of the ebony tree is rich in tannins. Dyeing with tannin-based natural materials, without synthetic pigments, shares conceptual similarities with kakishibu dyeing, a traditional Japanese technique using fermented persimmon tannin.

At NORAPAO, ebony fruits are soaked in water and left to ferment for approximately one year before use. The dye is extracted without heat: crushed fruit is mixed with water, and the yarn is repeatedly immersed, rinsed, and dried under natural sunlight.

By adjusting the number of dyeing cycles and exposure to light, the hue can range from a light ebony to a deep, rich brown. Rather than fading, the surface evolves over time, allowing the textile to age naturally.