habutae silk; fine Japanese silk
A smooth, lightweight, plain-weave silk fabric traditionally used for kimono linings, calligraphy cloth, and high-quality accessories.
High-quality habutae silk is used for the lining of this kimono.
Habutae cloth is said to be suitable for calligraphy practice.
縮緬 is a crepe silk with a textured surface, whereas 羽二重 is smooth and flat.
Standard kanji spelling for this traditional silk fabric.
Kana spelling is sometimes used in explanatory or learner contexts.
The name refers to the weaving method: two warp threads are passed together through each 羽, or opening in the loom’s reed, producing the fabric’s smooth, dense surface.