This is a short strap for a smartphone, made from Akebi vine and Grapevine.
This version features two ring-shaped ornaments made from Grapevine.

Based on the color of the leather, the two variations shown from left to right are “Brown” and “Black.”

The maker is Kaoru Saito, who has been working with vine and bark crafts in Yamagata for many years.
This piece reflects her practice of gathering materials such as Akebi and Grapevine herself.

Grapevine ornaments in two sizes, large and small, are braided like rings and threaded onto the strap.

As the rings are designed to slide, these two ornaments can move freely.

Next to them is a sphere woven from Akebi vine.
You can position it as you like, and by adjusting its placement, you can loosely control the range in which the Grapevine rings move.

This is a sphere made from Akebi vine.

This particular vine is known as “Hime-zuru,” a rare type of Akebi vine that can only be gathered under specific terrain and climatic conditions.

Compared to the Akebi vines used for basket making, it has a smoother, more refined feel.

In addition to the two ring-shaped ornaments, there is also a Grapevine “flower weave” threaded onto the strap.
This element is firmly secured and does not move.

In modern life, a smartphone is something we carry with us every day.

By attaching this strap to such an essential item, you can enjoy two kinds of mountain materials—
Akebi and Grapevine—as part of your daily life.

With regular handling, each material gradually develops a gentle sheen and a softer, more mellow texture.

As shown in the photo above, the hardware uses a hook-style fitting.
(The photo shows a different item: a short strap made from Akebi, walnut, and Grapevine.)

The hardware comes in three colors—silver, gold, and antique gold—and is attached at random.
You may choose the leather color, but the hardware color cannot be specified.

Please note that returns or exchanges based on the hardware color cannot be accepted.
This strap is not adjustable in length.

When each of these materials is made into a basket bag, the result can be quite valuable.
With this short strap, Kaoru hopes to offer a way to experience these materials more casually,
and to enjoy incorporating them into daily life with a sense of style, regardless of age.

We would be glad if it could become a small companion in your everyday life.

Please choose the type that suits you best.

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.