Why We Love It
Beloved by Japanese shopkeepers and merchants since the Edo period, maekake are more than just your regular kitchen apron.
This maekake Japanese apron is traditionally woven on a 100-year old loom by skilled craftsmen in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture. Using a highly specialized weaving method developed by one of the few remaining traditional makers of Japanese aprons, the 100% cotton canvas fabric is extremely durable yet comfortable.
The maekake is dyed in a traditional Japanese indigo color, which is fade-resistant. Emblazoned with Hokusai’s iconic ‘The Great Wave’, it’s a classic design that showcases centuries of Japanese art and history.
The maekake apron is also tied with an iconic red and white belt for easy fastening and wraps around to fit the shape of each wearer. It helps support your lower back whether you are working in the kitchen, the workshop or the outdoors.
How to Use Your Maekake
To wear a maekake in the traditional apron style, rest the apron at the top of your hips. Cross the belt firmly around the back before bringing the ends forward and fastening firmly at the front. The lower back support provided by the maekake is said to not only help prevent back problems, but also provide extra energy during work.
Maekake can also be used to protect clothing when carrying items. Traditionally merchants would drape maekake on their shoulders to provide protection when carrying heavy bags of rice or grain.
Whilst not fireproof, the thick woven fabric can also provide some protection from heat and during activities such as gardening, and are often utilised by potters and other craftsmen.
Why Choose Maekake Aprons from ANYTHING Co.?
ANYTHING Co. revives the 200-year-old tradition of maekake aprons, once essential for Japanese merchants, workmen, and shopkeepers. Founded in 2004 in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, they use century-old looms to weave richly textured, indigo fabric. Unlike mass-produced versions, these aprons are crafted by skilled artisans, ensuring both flexibility and durability. Over time, the fabric softens to fit perfectly. Each apron is handmade, preserving an essential part of Japanese heritage. Choose ANYTHING Co.'s maekake to own a piece of history and support the continuation of this invaluable craftsmanship.
Details
- Japanese Maekake Apron, handmade in Japan
- 100% cotton canvas.
- Adjustable waist ties.
- Product code: 17234NV
- Size: 26” x 18½” (67cm x 47cm), strap 102” (260cm), suitable for waist sizes up to 37” (95cm).
- Handwash separately in cold water.
We are committed to providing fast and reliable delivery worldwide. All our products are shipped directly from Japan, with tracking provided for every order.
United States
All taxes and duties included. No extra charges on delivery.
- STANDARD 5–8 days: FREE shipping on orders over $99.
- EXPRESS 3–5 days: Your shipping rate is shown at checkout.
European Union & United Kingdom
- STANDARD · VAT & duties not included · 5–8 days: FREE shipping on orders over $99. Taxes and duties may be payable before or upon delivery.
- EXPRESS · VAT & duties included · 3–5 days: Your final total is shown at checkout, with no extra charges on delivery.
Sending a gift? Choose Express to ensure your recipient has no import charges to pay.
Other Destinations
Taxes and duties may be payable before or upon delivery. For more information, please see Taxes & Duties.
- Canada, Australia, Middle East & East Asia · 3–5 days: FREE Express shipping on orders over $99.
- New Zealand & India · Within 1 week: FREE shipping on orders over $199.
- Japan · Next business day: FREE shipping on all orders.
- Taiwan: FREE shipping on all orders.
- Other countries · 4–5 days: Shipping rates shown at checkout.
All delivery times are estimates in business days from dispatch.
If you would like to return your order for whatever reason, we're here to help! We offer no hassle returns within 30 days of receiving your order.
Please note the following conditions for our 30-day return and exchange policy:
- Items must be returned unused and folded in the original packaging.
- Items must be returned to their original shipping location. We will confirm the return address for you.
- Discounted items or items purchased with store credit are not eligible for return or refund.
- Original taxes, duties, and outward shipping costs—the full amount we paid to the carrier, including on orders with free shipping—will be deducted from the refund. This includes VAT collected at checkout for EU & UK Express shipping.
- The customer is responsible for the return shipping cost.
- For hygiene reasons, we cannot accept returns on earrings, futon mattresses and duvets, mattress/duvet covers, or tatami mats.
How do I claim my return?
- Please contact us within 30 days of receiving your order.
- We will confirm the shipping address for you to send the item.
- Please return the item folded in its original packaging to the address we provide.
- Please send your return by normal mail (not courier), marking “Returned Items” on the customs form when returning to Japan. If you send your return by courier (DHL, FedEx, etc.) or do not mark “Returned Items” on the customs form, import duties may be charged. These may be payable by you or deducted from your refund where permitted by law.
- Once we receive the returned item and confirm its condition as unused and undamaged, we will issue your refund, subject to the deductions described above.
Do I have to pay shipping costs?
For change-of-mind returns, the original outward shipping cost paid to the carrier will be deducted from your refund, including on orders that qualified for free shipping. You are also responsible for return shipping costs.
If your order arrived damaged, we will cover both the original and any required return shipping costs.
If a package is refused due to unpaid duties or taxes, outbound and return shipping costs will be deducted from any refund.
Can I exchange for a different product?
Yes! To exchange an eligible, unused and undamaged item, you can follow the return process above and order your replacement through our website.
Alternatively, when you contact us about a return, let us know which product you would like as a replacement. We will hold it for you until we receive your return, subject to availability. Additional shipping costs may apply.
What if my item is damaged?
Very occasionally, items may be damaged in transit. If your item arrives damaged, we're here to help:
- Please contact us as soon as possible, ideally within 48 hours of receipt. This helps us make a claim with the shipping company.
- Please keep the damaged item and its packaging, and send us some photos of the damage.
- We will arrange a full refund or replacement, including shipping costs.
The requested 48-hour notification period does not affect your statutory rights.
How long will my refund take?
We will process your refund within 2 days of receiving the returned item. Your payment provider may take additional time to credit your account.
