Habotai / China Silk

Literally translated, Habotai or Habutai (from the Japanese habutae (羽二重) means "feather-two-layer" and is one of the most basic plain weaves of silk fabric.

Although traditionally woven in Japan, as most Habotai is now woven in China, it commonly goes by the name China Silk.

Easy to dye it is often used for crafting in the form of play silks and scarves. As a light weight yet durable silk with a subtle lustre, it is the best choice for linings and can also be used for T-shirts, lampshades, summer blouses or very light lingerie. Use a "sharp" needle when sewing.

Like other kinds of silks, habotai comes in a variety of weights/ thicknesses which is measured in mommes (abbreviated mm). The higher the number, the thicker the fabric. A lightweight and sheer habotai silk might be 5 or 8 mommes ("5mm or 8mm"); a 16mm habotai is considered quite thick.