habutae silk; fine Japanese silk
A smooth, lightweight, plain-weave silk fabric traditionally used for kimono linings, calligraphy cloth, and high-quality accessories.
この着物の裏地には上質な羽二重が使われている。
High-quality habutae silk is used for the lining of this kimono.
書道の練習には、羽二重の布が適していると言われる。
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.