Azuki checked Renko's work before starting on her own. The free-weaving technique didn't require beating down the wefts to make the fabric tight. The airy looseness of the fabric was part of its charm. For Renko's first effort, Azuki set the loom the Princess would use with lavender thread the color of the Fuji wisteria that bloomed all over Japan later in the spring. The dye was not quite even, so the shades of the thread would give a slight tonal effect that would be attractive in this delicate weave. Azuki had planned this project for herself, but it was simple enough, and would give the Princess a beautiful informal obi to wear with a yukata, or summer kimono, and something produced by her own hands. The color would go well with her yellow hair and pink-toned skin, Azuki thought. The t
