Mikawa Bomo is one of Japan's leading woolen and tweed yarn spinning mills. Located in the outskirts of Okazaki City in Aichi Prefecture, the mill is now run by Hamatani San, whose grandfather founded the business in 1947. 

Woolen yarn is defined by having less parallel or perfectly aligned fibers especially when compared to worsted yarn, which relies on multiple steps to straighten the fibers for a more uniform result. Woolens are typically softer with more cover or warmth - often used for knitting and also wovens, the yarns are twisted less compared to worsted.

We followed the chronological steps, as wool arrives in bales and is carded - potentially a number of times depending on the desired outcome or effect - before spinning.

I was in awe of the wooden walls, almost blackened from years of natural oils coming off the wool as it is sorted, causing the pine boards to develop an incredible patina.

As we entered the main spinning room, the immense clerestory windows flooded the massive space with a surreal quality of natural light. It was amazing to note just how hand-oriented the processes are. Even at a larger scale and with all this machinery - so many crucial points rely on skilled and attentive craftspeople.