This is a spherical basket made from Matatabi (a vine in the kiwifruit family).

There are two types available: a “peeled” type, made from strips with the outer bark completely removed,
and a “with bark” type, woven using a mix of peeled and unpeeled strips.

*Multiple balls are shown in the photographs, but each item is sold individually.

Matatabi is a well-known plant in Japan.
It belongs to the same family as kiwifruit, and when the fruit is cut open, the seeds are arranged in a similar way.

It often grows wild on mountain slopes, and is known for being time-consuming to gather.
The branches are harvested in autumn and dried before being made into these pieces.

Matatabi is a relatively soft and flexible material, and in regions where bamboo is scarce—
particularly in Oku-Aizu in Fukushima and parts of Yamagata—
it has long been used to make everyday tools such as kitchen strainers.

You may have seen toys filled with matatabi powder,
but this piece is made entirely from matatabi itself.

Matatabi balls used as cat toys are usually small, around 6–7 cm in diameter,
but this piece is a larger size, made specially at our request, measuring about 10 cm.

One of the reasons we asked for this larger size was a feeling we had while raising children—
that there are few opportunities for babies to come into contact with baskets made from natural materials from an early age.

With that in mind, we asked Kaoru to create this size as a toy that can be enjoyed not only by cats,
but also by human babies.

As they are woven, each piece is very lightweight, making them easy for small children and cats to play with.

They are usually finished as simple baskets, but depending on the materials available to Kaoru,
some pieces may include matatabi fruit inside.

Please note that we will select one for you from the available stock at the time,
and specific requests cannot be accommodated.

Some cats may react quite strongly, so please follow the precautions below when using this item.

• Reactions may vary—some cats may appear intoxicated or become highly excited.
* Please always use under the supervision of the owner.
* Some cats may show no interest at all.
* When not in use, store it in a drawer or place out of reach of your cat.
* The natural scent of matatabi will gradually fade over time.
* Do not allow prolonged play for extended periods.
* Returns cannot be accepted based on a cat’s reaction or lack of reaction.
* If a woven strip comes loose due to impact, gently press it back into place.
* You may thread string or yarn through the weave if you wish to hang or attach it.
* Cracks may occur as the material dries; this is a natural characteristic and not a defect.

The same care applies when used by children—if any irregularity is noticed during use, please stop using it immediately.
For safety, we recommend use under adult supervision.

You can also enjoy the natural character of matatabi, reminiscent of the mountain environment.
We hope it brings a pleasant moment to your home.

There are two types available: a “peeled” type, made from strips with the outer bark completely removed,
and a “with bark” type, woven using a mix of peeled and unpeeled strips.
Please select your preferred type.
*Multiple balls are shown in the photographs, but each item is sold individually.

Forms that captivate, born from the rich materials of Yamagata

Using a variety of mountain materials—Grapevine, walnut, Akebi, and Matatabi—
Kaoru Saito creates a succession of unique forms rarely seen elsewhere, as well as refined basketry that quietly draws the eye.

For many years, she has gone into the mountains herself to gather materials,
carrying out every step of the process from the very beginning.

In fact, Kaoru is also a highly skilled maker capable of producing finely woven Grapevine tote baskets of exceptional quality.
The accessories and ornaments she creates from multiple materials all carry a sense of considered beauty,
while also reflecting playfulness and thoughtful attention to the user.

She has a deep understanding of each material, and is also a user herself, incorporating baskets, accessories,
and small objects into her daily life.

Listening closely to the voices of those who use her work,
she continues to explore how pieces can be made more comfortable, beautiful, and enjoyable to use.