STORY

tousket – A Story of Simple Beauty and Heartfelt Craftsmanship

There’s a quiet elegance in simplicity — and that’s the first thing people often say when they see a tousket handwoven rattan bag. It isn’t loud or ornate, yet it speaks with a gentle confidence that naturally draws you in.

I always feel grateful when I hear such words — and a little surprised. All I ever tried to do was follow what felt natural and beautiful to me.

Only later did I realize that woven into my sense of design was a deep connection to Japanese aesthetic sensibilities — a way of seeing beauty that values restraint, balance, and quiet strength.

 

Inspired by Japanese Simplicity

Japanese beauty is honest and unpretentious. When I think of it, one image always comes to mind — the sacred wood of Ise Shrine.

It isn’t lacquered in red or adorned with gold. Instead, it stands in raw, simple whitewood. And yet, every branch and detail carries an air of grace, quiet dignity, and heartfelt warmth.

This delicate balance between simplicity and refinement is the inspiration behind every tousket bag.

 

Where It All Began — Surrounded by Rattan

My story with rattan began long before tousket existed. From the age of ten to thirteen, I lived in Bangkok, Thailand, where my family’s home was filled with rattan baskets and furniture.

My mother was deeply enchanted by this natural material. Before long, our home became a warm mosaic of woven pieces, each one quietly recording the passage of time in its soft amber glow.

Those cherished pieces — rich with memories and warmth — became my treasures. Living with them taught me why rattan is so beloved: it deepens in color and texture over time, becoming more beautiful the more it is loved.

 

A Lifelong Dream Takes Shape

I always dreamed of making things with my own hands. As I grew older, that dream naturally turned into a passion for weaving rattan myself.

I studied the craft eagerly and soon began creating original, handcrafted bags. When I carried one to a school event, friends stopped me with delighted questions: “Where did you get that?” and “I want one too.”

And just like that — one handmade bag led to another, and tousket quietly began its journey.

 

The Essence of Design — Simple, Stylish, Soulful

At tousket, simplicity is our foundation. But simplicity never means dull.

Inspired by the timeless Japanese concept of iki — a refined blend of understatement, boldness, and quiet charm — each piece is designed to be striking in its restraint.

Our rattan bags are both practical and expressive. Handcrafted to complement everyday outfits — a crisp white shirt, denim, or a simple dress — they gently elevate your style without ever overwhelming it.

More than just a bag, each piece becomes a wearable accessory that grows more personal with time.

 

— Tomoko Hiraoka, Founder of tousket