Meisen refers to a fabric created using a production technique where the design is transferred to the threads using stencils before weaving. The stenciled design can be applied to the warp and/or weft threads. The concept of applying patterns to threads before weaving is similar to kasuri (ikat), but the use of stencils allows for more complex designs, and as a result although the designs are stencil applied they keep the distinctive feel of kasuri (ikat) woven splash patterns. In general Meisen kimono look more modern as a result of the designs and use of bold colors.
Meisen is a pre weave stencil dyed (sakizome) mostly plain weave fabric.
Meisen became popular in the early twentieth century as a result of an optimized production process and extensive marketing. The improved stencil process and cheaper chemical dyes in combination with advances in the production of machine-spun floss silk allowed to create relatively affordable kimono with colorful and complex designs. Meisen can be considered an early form of fast fashion and one of the first mass-marketed kimono products.
Originally meisen was associated with strong wearing workwear made from left-over silk floss. This type of meisen (other than the name and production area) is different from the modern meisen.