Tatami Coasters: How to Choose the Right Design for Your Home
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With 18 different ichimatsu-pattern designs across our tatami coaster collection, the hardest part isn't finding a coaster you love — it's choosing just one.
Here's a quick guide to help you decide.
What Is Ichimatsu?
Ichimatsu (市松) is a traditional Japanese checkerboard pattern, alternating squares in two colors. It became internationally famous as the design motif for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In our coasters, the ichimatsu pattern is created by the weave direction of the igusa strands — no dye, no printing, just the natural texture of the grass itself.
Matching Your Interior Style
Japandi / Scandinavian Minimalism
If your home features natural wood, neutral tones, and clean lines, look for designs with high contrast patterns and the walnut wooden rim. The natural green-gold of fresh igusa pairs beautifully with oak, maple, and bleached wood furniture.
Traditional / Wabi-Sabi Japanese
For homes that embrace imperfection and natural aging, any of our coasters will feel at home. The igusa will naturally fade from green to golden-beige over time — this isn't a flaw, it's part of the material's life cycle, just as with traditional tatami floors.
Modern / Contemporary
Our coasters work as an intentional contrast piece in modern interiors. Against concrete, metal, or monochrome palettes, the warmth and texture of igusa becomes a focal point rather than background.
Practical Considerations
- Water-resistant finish: All coasters are treated to handle everyday drink condensation
- Size: Standard coaster size fits most mugs, glasses, and cups
- Care: Wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not submerge in water.
- Gifting: Each coaster comes individually — mix designs for a gift set of 4 or 6
Can't Decide?
Our most popular approach: order 2–3 different designs and see which one you reach for most. Each one is different enough to be interesting on its own, and they all look beautiful together.