At Hajime Karate, we specialise in embroidered belts for karatekas. We understand that the black belt is not just an accessory – it marks the beginning of one’s true personal journey in Karate. Every belt we embroider reflects the dedication, discipline and passion of each practitioner, which is why we treat them as genuine works of art. We adapt to each customer’s needs and wishes to bring them to life, taking care of every detail with a level of excellence that sets us apart.
When the embroidery is done in Japan, at the very factory where the belt is made, it becomes a truly unique and exclusive product: the embroidery is part of the artisanal manufacturing process, not added afterwards. Each belt embroidered in Japan is made specifically for the customer, in keeping with the tradition and craftsmanship that define Shureido.
What’s more, at Hajime Karate we offer an extensive range of options: a wide variety of colours, thread types and embroidery styles, so that every belt is truly personal and special. Our commitment is always to deliver the highest standards of excellence – in both our products and our service.
Japanese calligraphy specialists
We are the only company in the Karate sector with native Japanese staff on our team, experts in calligraphy, to ensure your embroidery is accurate, elegant and full of meaning.
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Choose Your Belt Step by Step
We’ll guide you through how to choose and customise your ideal embroidered belt. You can also follow this link for a step-by-step guide to the full process.
1. Choose your belt brand
At Hajime Karate we work with two leading brands:
Kaiten: German quality with three belt models at very competitive prices. Finer kanji embroidery.
Shureido: World-renowned belts, handcrafted and embroidered in Okinawa, Japan. Ideal for those seeking the highest level of excellence.
2. Select the fabric type
Cotton: durable, matte finish, does not fray easily, easy to tie.
Silk-satin: shiny and elegant, but more delicate to friction.
Natural silk: exclusive to Kaiten, highly luxurious, includes a premium gift box.
3. Choose the right size
Standard adult size: 5/290 cm.
If you choose an extra-thick belt, we recommend adding 10 cm.
Not sure about the size or embroidery layout? Contact us and we’ll help you choose the perfect fit so your embroidery looks just right.
How Would You Like Your Embroidery?
Embroidery options
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Factory embroidery (Japan): el cinturón se borda antes de coserlo, dejando el reverso limpio. Máxima calidad artesanal (3 meses de espera aproximada).
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Embroidery in Europe: the finished belt is embroidered with Japanese machines in Germany. Quick turnaround (15–20 days) with excellent results, though kanji are finer.
Which embroidery style to choose?
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Uppercase Latin letters: classic and easy to read.
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Script Latin letters:: escritura enlazada elegante.
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Japanese kanji:: for expressing deep concepts.
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Katakana: for phonetically writing names in Japanese.
Our Japanese staff will advise you to ensure the translation and calligraphy express exactly what you want.
What to embroider, and where
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Most common: your Karate style on the label side and your name on the opposite end.
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Other combinations: phrases, multiple names, Karate values, etc. It’s your choice!
Belt thickness and width
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Standard thickness: 4.2 cm wide, easy to manage. 8 stitches on Kaiten belts and 11 on Shureido.
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Extra-thick belts: 4.6 cm wide (or custom). More structure, upward-pointing tips – ideal for experienced karatekas.
See here the difference between the different thicknesses of karate belts.
Practical tip
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For thicker belts or longer embroideries, make sure the embroidery fits well and won’t be hidden by the knot.
Thread colours and types
The traditional yellow-orange thread from Shureido is no longer the only option. Now you can choose from many colours: white, silver, red, metallic gold and more.
Choose the colour that best expresses your personality on the tatami!
Still Have Questions?
At Hajime Karate we oversee the entire process with great care. With native Japanese staff, specialist equipment, and over 10 years’ experience advising karatekas from all over the world, your belt is in expert hands.
👉Contact us if you need help customising your belt. We’re here to help you create something truly unique!
