What is Tatami Omote?
FAQ’s Tatami omote is the “face”, or cover, on the traditional Japanese tatami mat. It is only about 1/8 of an inch (2-1/2 to 3 millimeters) thick. Tatami omote is graded mostly by the size, quality, and color consistency of the reed material that is used. The mats can also be made with different weave patterns and are then cut to fit the particular foam or rice straw base that will be used. The one feature that all genuine tatami mats have in common is that the covering is made from the plant Juncus Effusus; the common name of the plant is Soft Rush. Look here for more information about tatami omote.