Obi (underbelt)

White linen or white cotton is recommended, silk is not good; ordinary linen or cotton will be folded into four folds, of which the width of these fabrics in Japan is about 16 inches, will give a belt of about 4 inches. The length depends on the size of the wearer, whether he is fat or thin; but generally it is either 6 feet wound twice around the body, or 9 feet wound thrice around. It should be tied in front, although some tie it behind, but if it is tied at the back it is inconvenient to retie if it becomes loose.