Boro (ぼろ) is derived from boroboro, meaning something tattered or repaired.

And Boros are just that: textiles that have been patched together for generations. 

Boro were blankets and clothing worn by the peasant farming classes in the Northern regions of Japan, who mended their garments with spare fabric scraps out of economic necessity. Cotton could not be cultivated in these cold areas, making hemp more available. Boro are woven together of these fabrics.

Today Boro textiles are considered works of art, representing years of folk crafts. 

Kokeshi (こけし, 小芥子) originate from the northeastern region (Tōhoku-chihō) of Japan.  

Kokeshis have been crafted for more than 150 years as a toy for children. The figures are handmade from wood, with no arms or legs, a simple trunk and head with a few thin, painted lines to define the face.  

The 11 traditional Kokeshi styles represent the signature design of the 11 different towns in the Northern parts of Japan where Kokeshis were made. 

Since the 1950s, Kokeshi artisans have signed their work. Today the Kokeshi is a sign af love and friendship.