In summer, the Retreat Wabisabi in Shimoda, Japan opens its doors to guests from all over the world. It is run by Angela and Yasuo – and they are also the source of the most beautiful everyday stories.

One of them begins in the guest rooms, specifically on the beds: You won’t find a thick feather duvet there, but a “Towelket” – a blend of towel and blanket, so light that it’s comfortable even on hot nights.

Over time, these Towelkets show signs of wear: a stain, some fading, sometimes simply a worn-out appearance. But instead of throwing them away, Angela has a much better idea: She redyes them – giving them new life.

This year, I was able to lend a hand. Together, we gave the Towelkets vibrant colors and immediately transformed them into something completely new: surf ponchos.
The size fits perfectly, the material is wonderful to work with, and hardly any waste is left at the end.

This way, fabrics that have already experienced many summer nights in Japan get a second life – this time not in the guest room, but on the beach.