How to Make a Japanese Futon
A traditional Japanese futon called a shikibuton is a sleeping pad that has been used in Japan for centuries. It’s traditionally made of 100 percent cotton padding and has a fabric cover that is laid on a tatami (straw) mat for sleeping. Normally stored away at night, the Japanese futon is portable and simple to make.
Things You Will Need
- 3, 4 or more layers of cotton
- Cotton muslin fabric
- Zipper
Tip
Most Japanese futons are stuffed with cotton, but wool and foam can also be used. To clean the futon, remove and wash the fabric cover. The actual futon can be aired out in the traditional way by hanging it on an outside railing every two to three days or simply vacuuming it occasionally.
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Decide on the size of the futon you want and make note of the dimensions. Typical twin futon measurements are 39 inches wide and 75 inches long; full size are 54 inches wide and 75 inches long and queen are 60 inches by 80 inches long.
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Go to an upholstery supply store to purchase the cotton, zipper and the fabric for the futon cover. Traditional Japanese futons are made from 100 percent cotton and you’ll roughly need three to four layers depending on the firmness you prefer.
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Cut the fabric according your desired measurements adding an additional 1cm for an easy fit. Turn the fabric inside out and sew the three sides together. Sew a zipper on the open side and turn the fabric inside out, thereby creating the finished futon cover.
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Lay out the cotton padding. An adhesive, such as rubber glue, can be used to adhere the layers together but that’s optional.
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Insert the cotton padding into the fabric cover. Gently push the cotton into the corners for a smooth and even surface if necessary.
The Drip Cap
- A traditional Japanese futon called a shikibuton is a sleeping pad that has been used in Japan for centuries.
- Traditional Japanese futons are made from 100 percent cotton and you’ll roughly need three to four layers depending on the firmness you prefer.
- Insert the cotton padding into the fabric cover.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
LeJarie Battieste-Noguchi is a Japanese-to-English translator and writer. She taught English in Japan for three years and was Researcher/News Reporter for a leading Japanese newspaper. Battieste-Noguchi is also an author of an encyclopedia chapter on modern music in Southeast Asia for Greenwood Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Japanese/East Asian cultures from the University of California, Los Angeles.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images
- Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images
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