The core element of what makes our T-shirts special lies in Wakayama, Japan, where they are manufactured using vintage tsuri-ami machines. These remarkable pieces of engineering, most commonly referred to as loopwheel machines, represent a manufacturing philosophy that prioritizes quality over speed – a principle that resonates deeply with us. 

Tsuri-ami machines are a testament to Japanese engineering ingenuity. Unlike modern circular knitting machines that use high-speed motors and tension systems, loopwheel machines operate on a gravity-fed system. The fabric is literally knitted by falling – "tsuri-ami" translates to "hanging knit" in Japanese.

These vintage machines, many of which date back to the 1920s, operate at an extraordinarily slow pace, producing just one meter of fabric per hour. The cylinder containing the knitting needles rotates at a precise speed, while the yarn is fed through without mechanical tension. This allows the cotton fibers to relax naturally as they're knitted, resulting in a fabric structure that's fundamentally different from mass-produced alternatives.

The production process begins with carefully selected premium long-staple cotton, spun into yarn that meets exacting specifications for tautness and density. Each machine must be meticulously calibrated by hand before production starts, with careful attention paid to the spacing between needles, yarn tension, and rotation speed – all factors that affect the final fabric quality. As the fabric is knitted in its tubular form, it descends slowly, creating a naturally relaxed fabric formation with minimal lateral stress. Throughout the process, each section of fabric is carefully inspected for consistency in knit structure and potential imperfections.

The result of this meticulous process is a fabric with exceptional softness due to minimal tension during knitting, superior durability from relaxed fiber alignment, natural stretch and recovery properties, and a distinctive, subtle texture that improves with wear. These characteristics are simply unattainable through conventional manufacturing methods.

We've developed T-shirts that weigh in at a substantial 8.2oz (280gsm). This heavyweight fabric represents the sweet spot between durability and comfort, heavy enough to drape well while remaining comfortable for year-round wear. The attention to detail extends to every aspect of construction, from the triple-stitched collar using a specialized three-needle technique to the custom-designed woven tags that match the garment's quality and longevity.

One of our most significant innovations comes in the form of size-specific construction methods. For sizes S to M, we're able to utilize the full circumference of the loopwheel machines, creating truly seamless garments. For sizes L to XXL, we've developed a modified construction that features carefully placed flat side seams, executed with precision with a vintage Union Special machine to maintain the comfort and durability our customers expect. This adaptation allows us to offer the unique qualities of loopwheel fabric to a broader range of customers without compromising on quality.

The Sizing Challenge and Our Solution

Perhaps the most significant innovation in our T-shirts is the Western-oriented sizing system. Through years of experience in heritage clothing retail, we've witnessed first hand the difficulties that inconsistent sizing can cause, particularly when it comes to Japanese manufacturers.

Japanese sizing typically runs smaller than Western sizes, creating a barrier for many customers who might otherwise appreciate these exceptionally crafted garments.

We've worked extensively to bridge this gap, ensuring our T-shirts maintain the superior quality of Japanese manufacturing while providing a fit that corresponds to Western expectations. This hasn't been a simple task – it required careful calibration and multiple iterations to achieve the perfect balance. The result is a collection that offers the best of both worlds: the unparalleled quality of Japanese loopwheel manufacturing with the comfort and confidence of familiar sizing.

Left: Pascual is wearing Black T-shirt in size S / Right: David is wearing White T-shirt in size M

We also believe that the experience of premium clothing begins before you even try on the garment. That's why we've developed packaging that truly reflects the quality of what's inside. Each two-pack of T-shirts comes in a sturdy 360g textured cardboard box, featuring our signature blend of indigo and Redcast colors.

At 140€ for a two-pack, we've positioned these T-shirts to offer exceptional value without compromising on quality. This pricing reflects our belief that premium basics should be accessible while fairly compensating the artisans and crafts people involved in their creation. Each package includes detailed care instructions to ensure your T-shirts maintain their inherent qualities over time, while developing character and becoming more comfortable with each wear.

A New Standard in Basics

While our initial offering focuses on white and black T-shirts, this launch represents just the beginning of The Redcast Quality Goods line. Each future addition to the collection will follow the same principles: identifying specific needs, maintaining unwavering quality standards, and bridging the gap between old-world manufacturing and modern demand.

The Redcast Quality Goods T-shirts represent more than just premium basics – they're a testament to what's possible when traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary needs. By combining the unparalleled quality of Wakayama's tsuri-ami manufacturing with Western sizing, we're not just filling a gap in the market; we're setting a new standard for what customers should expect from their wardrobe essentials.

For those who appreciate the subtle details, who understand that true quality often lies in what isn't immediately visible, these T-shirts offer something special. They represent our commitment to preserving traditional manufacturing while ensuring they remain relevant and accessible to today's consumer. The launch of The Redcast Quality Goods marks a new chapter in our journey to bring the finest heritage-inspired clothing to our customers. It's a reflection of everything we've learned about quality, fit, and customer needs over the years, distilled into products that we believe will become the foundation of your wardrobe for years to come.