KIWAMI in brief
- Light absorption 99.905 % in the visible range (total reflectance 0.095 %, AOI 8°)
- Material: rayon base fabric + rayon pile, with a resin coating on the back in the back-coated version
- Thickness approx. 1.8 mm (back coated) · weight 305 g/m² (manufacturer SDS)
- Width 1,100 mm – cut to length 0.5–10 m or a 22 m roll · A4 sample available
- Two versions: back coated (stiffer, less pile shedding – recommended for permanent installations) or without back coating (softer draping for curtains)
- Made in Japan · optimised for visible light – for IR use choose IR Flock Sheet
Ordering and price
Made to order – price and lead time on request. Tell us the size and version and we will quote quickly: request a quote. Not sure it fits? Order an A4 sample first – we always recommend it before a large order.
Applications
- Home theatres and projection rooms – less stray light, deeper contrast
- Photography and video backdrops, product and macro photography, teleprompters
- Museums, exhibitions and display cases – the object separates from the background
- Set design, theatre, TV studios and events
- Trade fair stands, premium retail and large-area light control
Fabric or paint?
Fabric is blacker and covers large areas fast, so it is the better choice for backdrops, curtains, teleprompters and wall surfaces. Musou Black paint suits three-dimensional objects and rigid shapes that fabric cannot follow.
Comparing the Musou Black fabrics
- KIWAMI – blackest in visible light (99.905 %), the general choice for studios, exhibitions and home theatres
- Fabric FR – fire resistant, the only option for public spaces, theatres and events
- VL Flock Sheet – more affordable choice for visible light, tolerates contact
- IR Flock Sheet – the only one that also absorbs strongly in the near-infrared (LiDAR, sensors)
See the full fabric range or the Musou Black world.
Cutting and processing
The fabric can be cut and processed to suit the application, and it can be sewn into curtain form. In the back-coated version the resin coating stabilises the fibre structure and reduces pile shedding, which makes it better suited to permanent installations and large areas.
Handling and storage
Pressure, abrasion and water reduce light absorption. The upright pile is the whole basis of the effect: store the fabric as pressure-free as possible and keep it dry. The manufacturer ships rolls longer than 10 metres wound around a metal frame precisely so the pile is not compressed in transit.
If the pile has been compressed, indirect steam and gentle brushing may restore the surface. Do not steam so much that water droplets form – water can damage the fabric permanently.
Frequently asked questions
Can the fabric be cut and sewn?
Yes. It can be cut and processed to suit the application and sewn into curtain form. Handle the pile surface carefully, as it is the basis of the blackness.
Can KIWAMI be washed?
No. According to the manufacturer, water affects the pile structure and optical performance, so the fabric must be kept dry. Dust can be removed by gentle brushing. For applications where the surface will get dirty, consider VL Flock Sheet, which tolerates handling better.
Does pressure reduce the blackness?
Yes. Pressure compresses the pile structure and lowers absorption. Store the fabric rolled, without weight on top.
Back coated or soft version?
The back-coated version is stiffer and sheds less pile – choose it for permanent installations, frames, walls and technical applications. The non-coated version drapes more softly and suits curtains and folds.
Is KIWAMI suitable for infrared applications?
No – KIWAMI is optimised for visible light. For IR, LiDAR and NIR use choose IR Flock Sheet.
Can KIWAMI be used near sensitive sensors?
With caution. Flocked materials can shed fine fibre dust, so for cleanliness-critical applications and the internals of precision equipment the manufacturer recommends fibre-free alternatives. KIWAMI is designed above all for large-area visible light absorption.
Can KIWAMI be used in public spaces?
KIWAMI has no fire certification. For theatres, hotels, trade fairs and other public spaces subject to fire inspection, choose fire-resistant Fabric FR.
Documents
Questions or a demo: get in touch – we serve businesses with quotes and invoicing.
