Shichi-Go-San is a celebration to wish for children’s health and happiness and to mark their growth.
Around November 15, families visit shrines and have photos taken, and recently more people have been making the outfits and accessories used for the photos by hand.
In this article, we’ll focus on one particular accessory—the Chitose-ame (thousand-year candy) bag—and share handmade ideas for it.
We’ll introduce ideas in three sections—materials and taste (style), design, and patterns—so we hope it will be helpful when you make your own.
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Material/Texture (1–10)
muted color(s)
For those who want to create a monotone Chitose-ame bag, muted colors are recommended.
Because the bag has a grayish tone, it’s perfect for shooting in stylish rooms or spaces.
If you plan to place items in the background, choose a bag with fewer illustrations on it.
The “Chitose-ame” text written in a cute font at the center will match your child’s expression.
It’s a stylish item that creates a modern vibe.
By intentionally keeping the colors subdued, you can achieve a well-balanced bag—be sure to try this idea.
Natural
This one is recommended for those who want to achieve a natural look that’s popular in interiors and more.
It’s a Chitose-ame bag made from cotton or linen, adorned with lace ribbons and dried flowers.
At first glance, it’s so stylish you wouldn’t even think it’s a candy bag.
If you prefer to make it with paper, using wax paper or natural-colored washi would also turn out adorable.
It would look perfect if you’re planning to dress your child in Western-style clothing, like a dress or suit, for Shichi-Go-San!
felt
Why not try making a Chitose-ame bag using felt fabric, which has a soft and cozy look? It creates a warm, inviting piece that’s perfect for Shichi-Go-San, where your child is the star.
Felt also has great shock-absorbing properties, so it helps protect the contents if the bag is accidentally dropped.
Create auspicious little items one by one and stick them onto the bag.
This fabric lends itself to a wide range of ideas, from Japanese-themed motifs to portraits of your family or pets.
race
Let’s make a photogenic Chitose-ame bag to brighten up your Shichi-Go-San celebration! By using sheer lace fabric, you can create a bag with beautifully translucent colors.
You might choose themes like flowers or animals, or incorporate items your child loves.
When doing delicate work, tools like tweezers are recommended.
Try decorating the center of flower petals with beads, or get creative with patterns.
How about using glamorous materials that match your child’s sparkling smile?
Yuzen washi
Yuzen washi exudes an elegant, sophisticated atmosphere.
When we hear “traditional Yuzen dyeing,” we tend to picture kimono obi, but it can also be used to dye washi and regular paper.
Because each sheet is finished by hand, the colors vary subtly from piece to piece, giving every item a uniquely rich palette.
In addition to classic, subdued hues, pop and vivid colors can also be used, making it suitable for bright, child-friendly designs.
It would be fun to dye it with the same patterns as a kimono, too!
wooden
A perfect match for Shichi-Go-San photo shoots in kimono is a wooden Chitose-ame plate.
Let’s create a plate about the size of a traditional Chitose-ame bag that complements the children’s outfits and the background.
Arrange motifs like cranes, plum blossoms, and temari balls, and prominently display “Chitose-ame” in the center—that’s the key point.
Since it’s made of wood, it won’t lose its shape even if kids wave it around or grip it tightly.
Try photographing not only with them holding the handle, but also in ways that capture their natural expressions and movements.
Design (1–10)
Character
If you match the character design with the bag’s material and color, it will really stand out.
It’s best to outline with relatively thick lines and keep the coloring simple without shading.
You can use colored pencils or crayons for a rustic feel, or try felt-tip pens or highlighters for bold, vibrant colors.
Drawing a speech bubble next to the character and having it say something can be fun, too! You could also leave the drawing uncolored and just do the line work, then enjoy coloring it together with your child.