[Illustrated Guide] How to Display and Store May Doll Helmet and Armor Decorations | Part Names, Procedures, and Storage

With the arrival of spring and the Boys' Festival approaching...


"How did I decorate my helmet last year...?"

"Are these armor parts correct?"


Such voices can be heard from all over the home.

The helmet and armor decorations for May dolls are

A special item to display in hopes of your child's healthy growth.


But because it's only released once a year,

"I'm worried about whether I can decorate it properly."

It's only natural to feel like you don't know how to put it away.

On this page,

How to display and store the helmet and armor decorations of May dolls.

A detailed introduction with illustrations and photographs.


The names and orientation of the parts, the order in which to display them, and points to note when tidying up,

We will also introduce tips on insect prevention and storage.

It is summarized in an easy-to-understand manner for families celebrating their first Doll Festival.

We hope you can display it with peace of mind, knowing that it will be fine.


And your child's smile and your family's precious memories,

May it continue to accumulate every year.


We deliver this product with that wish in mind.

1. Easy to understand with illustrations! Three-tiered helmet and armor set

Part names and correct display methods

The three-tiered May doll display includes:

There are many parts, such as helmets, armor, bows and swords, folding screens, and pedestals .


The position and decoration order of each part is

Please refer to the diagram below.

"Which one is where?"

Even if you tend to get confused and wonder, "Are the left and right positions correct?"

This diagram shows the decoration process at a glance.

The important thing is that your wishes will be conveyed by displaying them in the "right way."


Wishing for your child's healthy growth,

Let's decorate each one carefully.

2. Easy to understand with illustrations! Compact May Dolls

How to display a helmet ornament

A compact May doll that is perfect for modern homes.


Even in a limited space,

Depending on how you display it, it can look impressive.

In this illustration, the balance of the arrangement with the helmet ornament ,

We will clearly explain how to orient screens and pedestals and how to place small items .

"Is this size okay?"

"I want to display it beautifully because it saves space."

For those people, we have compiled some tips on how to decorate in a simple and eye-catching way .

Even if it's small, the wish is big.


With the desire to watch over your child's growth,

Enjoy your time decorating.

3. Names of parts and assembly procedure for the helmet ornament

Explanation of six parts including the chest, core, crest, and cloth

The May doll's helmet ornament is made up of only six parts .


But every year when I decorate it, I wonder, "Is this right...?"

Something that makes you anxious.


In this section:

Part names, installation order, correct orientation, and precautions

We will introduce it in an easy-to-understand manner using illustrations.

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[1] Learn the basic six-part structure

The helmet ornament consists of the following five parts :

• ① Chest: Wooden storage and base (2 parts: main body and lid)
  
  
• ② Shingi (core): The axis that supports the helmet
  
  
• ③ Fukusa: A cloth that covers the core wood
  
  
• ④ Helmet body
  
  
• ⑤ Kuwagata (helmet crest): A decoration resembling the horns of a helmet
  
  

First, check that you have all the parts.

That alone gives you the peace of mind that "this is right."

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[2] Pay attention to the direction of the cabinet.

The chest that forms the base of the helmet has a front and back .


Generally, the side with the metal fittings is the front .


The lid and the body each have metal fittings,

Make sure both are facing the right way.

There are types without metal fittings,

In that case, please refer to the image for placement.

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[3] Be careful when placing the core wood.

The core wood is like a "spine" that supports the helmet.

Depending on the shape, there may be a front or back orientation .

The type with a horizontal bar coming out from the middle is

Place it so that the protrusion is facing forward .


This is a device to support the helmet so that it does not fall forward.

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[4] Place a cloth (fukusa) on top of the core.

A cloth is placed loosely over the core,

Hides the core wood.


By adjusting the fabric,

The overall impression is dignified and beautiful.

It is a part of the decoration that plays an "invisible but important" role.

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[5] Carefully place the helmet on top of the core wood.

Place the helmet body straight on top of the core wood and cloth.


Keep the front in mind and decorate so that the decorations are at the front.

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[6] How to wear a kuwagata (helmet crest) correctly

The decorative kuwagata (helmet crest) resembles the horns of a helmet.

Be careful about the left and right insertion directions.


The basic rule is to install it in the shape of a "U" in Roman letters .

Also, the 鍬形 has a front and back .

The side with engravings and patterns is the "front",

The side with the artist's name engraved is the back .

[Common mistakes and points to note]

• ・The front and back of the cabinet are reversed
  
  
• ・The direction of the core wood protrusion is incorrect.
  
  
• ・The left and right sides and front and back of the 鍬形 are reversed

It's a small difference,

The impression of the finished product will change dramatically.


Please take your time and check the images carefully.

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【lastly】

There is no "must do" when decorating a helmet ornament,

The most important thing is to decorate with your wishes in mind .


Thinking of your child's smile,

Enjoy each and every step.

4. Armor decoration component composition and correct order of decoration

Introducing 9 parts including the apron, face mask, and core wood

The armor decoration of the May dolls is

Because it is stored in a compact manner,


When decorating, many people are unsure of what to put where and how to display it .

Here are the 10 basic parts :

We will explain it step by step in an easy-to-understand manner.


If you follow the steps along with the images,

Even if you are a beginner, you can decorate it beautifully.

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[1] List of 10 basic parts

• ① Hitsu (chest) - wooden box (2 parts: body and lid)
  
  
• ②Kegutsu (hair shoes): decorative shoes placed on the feet
  
  
• ③Shin guards
  
  
• ④ Maedare...Decoration on the front of the thigh
  
  
• ⑤ Core wood: Wooden frame that supports the main body
  
  
• ⑥ Torso (armor body)
  
  
• ⑦ Menpo (face mask): chin protection
  
  
• ⑧helmet
  
  
• 9. Kuwagata (helmet crest): the horn-shaped part of a helmet
  
  
  

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[2] Place the display stand and folding screen first

First, make the background folding screen and the display stand.

Let's set it up first.

This makes it easier to balance the placement of armor.

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[3] Installation of the chest and apron

Next, place the chest .


Pay attention to the front and back directions,

Make sure the side with the metal fittings is facing forward .

Next, the front is installed.

When closing the lid of the chest , pinch the strings on both sides.

The key is to fix it .

---

[4] Assemble the core wood and the body

Make sure that the horizontal bar (protruding part) of the core wood is facing forward .

A core is passed through the body of the armor and then placed in the center of the chest .

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[5] Attaching the face mask

The face mask has strings on both sides ,

Secure it by hanging it over the notch at the top of the core wood.


The height can be fine-tuned by adjusting the string.

The protruding core wood pushes out the nose, creating a natural angle.

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[6] Installation of helmets and shovels

Place the helmet body on top of the faceplate and insert the 鍬形 (helmet crest).


Don't confuse left and right

Insert it so that it forms a "U" shape.

The side with the engraving is the front, and the side with the artist's name engraved is the

It is generally considered to be the back.

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[7] Line up the furry boots and you're done!

Finally, place the furry boots at your feet and you're done!




Adjust the location symmetrically,

Let's balance it all out.

[Summary of points to note]

• ・Do not mix up the front and back of the cabinet (both the lid and the cabinet)
  
  
• - Pay attention to the direction of the core and the protrusion at the front.
  
  
• ・Hook the faceplate securely onto the core wood
  
  
• ・It is easy to confuse the left and right sides and the front and back of the 鍬形 (helmet crest), so be careful.
  
  
  

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【lastly】

Armor decorations have many parts and are a little complicated,

The process of decorating itself becomes a memory .


"This is your armor," he said.

The time spent decorating together is a treasured moment for parents and children.

Once you get used to it, you'll find yourself saying "It's that time of year again" every year.

You'll be able to decorate it with a smile.

5. How to insert the hoe-shaped crest and the front and back direction of the core wood

Two common mistakes to be aware of when making May dolls

When you try to decorate your helmet or armor,

"Um... is this left or right?"

"Maybe the front and back are facing backwards?"

There are some points that many people get confused about.

That is, how to wear the kuwagata (helmet crest) ,

The front-to-back orientation of the core wood .


There is a slight difference between the two,

This has a big impact on the appearance and stability .

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[1] How to correctly distinguish the left and right sides and the front and back of a kuwagata (helmet crest)

The kuwagata, which corresponds to the horns on a helmet,

The direction of insertion (left and right) and the orientation of the front and back are very important.

• Correct answer on the left and right:
  
  Insert the plug inward to form a "U" shape.
  
  
  
• How to tell the front from the back:
  
  
  • The side with engravings and decorations → Front
    
    
  • The side with the artist's name engraved → Back
    
    

Recently, there are also 鍬形 (helmet crest) with less decorative features.

Sometimes it's hard to tell the front from the back .


In that case, it's a good idea to remember to place the side with the pattern in front.

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[2] Front and back of the core wood | The protruding side is the front

The core wood is an important part that supports the helmet or armor.


Depending on the type,

Some have a horizontal bar-like protrusion in the middle .

Place it so that this protrusion is facing forward (towards your face) .


The structure firmly supports decorations that tend to lean forward,

This will change the stability of the decoration.

---

[There are many mistakes like this]

• ・The left and right sides of the 鍬形 (helmet crest) are reversed, which makes it look strange...
  
  
• ・The core wood is facing the wrong way, causing the displayed helmet to fall forward.
  
  
• ・The front and back of the crest are reversed, so the artist's name is in front.
  
  

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【summary】

There is a small difference between these two points,

"I want to decorate it properly."

This is an important part that determines whether or not your feelings are conveyed .

Such beautiful helmets and armor.


Wishing your child well in their growth,

I want to decorate it beautifully and with love .

If you get lost, come back to this page.


Your desire to "do it right"

We are rooting for you too.

6. Summary of the order of decoration of helmets and armor

A safe placement checklist for your first festival

When you think about decorating,

"From where?" "From what?"

It's common to get confused about May dolls.


Especially for families celebrating their first festival ,

Many people are confused about taking the first step.

In this section, we will explain the order in which to display the helmet and armor ornaments .

We present it in the form of a concise checklist .

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🎏 Kabuto Kazari | Decoration Steps (6 steps)

1. ① Check the chest body and lid and place them with the metal fittings facing forward.
   
   
2. ② Insert the core wood in the correct direction (the protruding part is in front)
   
   
3. ③ Place the cloth (fukusa) gently over the core wood.
   
   
4. ④ Place the helmet body on the core wood and cloth in a balanced manner.
   
   
5. ⑤ Insert the kuwagata (helmet crest) on both sides to form a "U" shape.
   
   
6. ⑥ Check the overall angle and center and make fine adjustments
   
   
   

✔ Done! Your helmet ornament will now have a dignified appearance .

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🛡 Armor Decoration | Decoration Steps (9 steps)

1. ① Display stand and folding screen set up in advance
   
   
2. ② Place the cabinet so that the metal fittings are facing forward.
   
   
3. ③Attach the front apron by sandwiching it between the lid
   
   
4. ④Pass the core through the body and place it in the center of the cabinet.
   
   
5. ⑤ Adjust the menpo (face covering) by hanging it on the top of the core.
   
   
6. ⑥ Place the helmet on top of the face mask
   
   
7. ⑦Attach the 鍬形 (helmet crest) on both sides to form a "U" shape.
   
   
8. ⑧ Arrange props such as shin guards and furry boots at your feet.
   
   
9. ⑨ Balance the overall layout
   
   
   

✔ Done! Your armor decoration now looks imposing .

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💡A little ingenuity can make your decorations stand out even more

• ・If you decorate it during times when the sun is shining brightly, it will brighten your mood.
  
  
• ・You can discuss with your child, "Should we display it here?"
  
  
• ・Take photos and keep a record of your experience so you can use them as reference for the next time.
  
  

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🎁The act of decorating is already creating memories

The act of displaying a May doll is itself a prayer for your child .


"You've grown so much."

"I hope you'll be healthy this year too."


The time spent decorating together while saying such things will be a treasured memory.

It's okay even if it's your first time.


If you follow this order,

You can decorate it neatly, beautifully, and with love .

7. How to store and put away the helmet ornaments

Includes cleaning, disassembly, storage, and insect prevention measures

When the Boys' Festival was over, I thought, "It's about time to clean up."

"How do I do it...?"

There are many people who are troubled by this.

In this section, we will explain how to properly store your helmet ornaments .

I will explain step by step along with the images .


So that you can enjoy displaying it the next time you open it.

Let's focus on the important points.

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[1] First, clean it thoroughly.

Before putting away the helmet ornament,

The key is to carefully remove any dust or dirt .


Gently wipe it off with a soft cloth or brush,

Use alcohol disinfectant wipes on areas where oil is a concern

Wipe it off gently.

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[2] Choose a sunny day to put it away

On the day I put it in the box,

Ideally, choose a sunny day with low humidity .


If you store it while it is still damp,

This can cause mold and rust on metal fittings.

After storage, keep out of direct sunlight.

Store in a well-ventilated place .

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[3] Disassemble into parts and store them

● Remove the kuwagata (helmet crest)

Gently remove the inserted 鍬形 (kuwagata)

Store it in the bag provided.

Since it is a metal part, it is safer to keep it separate from other parts that are likely to be bumped into.

● Folding a fukusa (cloth cloth)

After dusting off the cloth that was hanging on the core,

Carefully fold it and store it in the cloth bag or enclosed envelope.

● Wrap the helmet body in a furoshiki cloth.

After gently removing surface dirt from the helmet itself,

It is wrapped in the original furoshiki and stored in a chest.

When wrapping, be careful not to put pressure on the decorative parts .

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[4] Store all parts in a chest.

The helmet crest, cloth, and helmet body are placed in the chest in that order .

For parts that are prone to wobbling,

It is a good idea to add some cushioning material or a soft cloth .

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[5] Don't forget to use insect repellent

Once storage is complete,

Place two or three packets of mothballs in the cabinet.


We recommend camphor type , etc.

It is of natural origin.

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🎏 "So that we can decorate it beautifully again next year."

A helmet ornament is a treasure that watches over your child's growth every year .


Putting things away is not just a matter of tidying up,

It's preparation for the next festival .

By storing it carefully, you can use it again next year.


We hope you enjoy decorating it with a smile.

8. How to organize and store armor decorations

How to wrap things in furoshiki and organize small items

Armor decorations have many parts,

When putting it away

"Where from?"

It's easy to get confused about what to wrap and how .


In this section:

We will show you how to store your items carefully, following the steps in the images .

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[1] Remove decorations in the order they were last attached.

The basic rule for removal is in reverse order .

Kuwagata → Kabuto → Menho → Torso...

Carefully remove them one by one in order .

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[2] Remove the core wood and wrap the armor body in furoshiki.

The core wood is the first part to be removed .

After that, he gently picked up the armored body,

It is wrapped in a furoshiki cloth and placed in a chest.

*Depending on the size,

There are also types that can be stored without removing the core wood.

(Example: size 7).

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[3] Put the apron in a plastic bag

The apron on the thighs was lightly wiped clean ,

Fold it up, put it in a plastic bag and store it in a cupboard .

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[4] Don't forget to bring two or three bottles of insect repellent.

When storing , put an insect repellent (camphor) inside the cabinet.

It's a good idea to keep 2 or 3 in there.


It is recommended to use a type specifically designed for May dolls rather than a type for clothing.

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[5] Put your props in a small box

Small parts such as fur boots, shin guards, and face masks are

Place them all together in a small cardboard box or gift box .

You should also bring some insect repellent here.

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[6] Place small boxes in the bottom space of the cabinet

The small box containing the parts is placed in the empty space at the foot of the chest.

To prevent it from moving around inside, lightly secure it with cushioning material .

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🎏 "Putting things away" is also a time filled with feelings

The work of carefully storing the armor decorations is

We are preparing to welcome the new year in a beautiful way .


"Thank you again this year."

"Let's decorate together again next year."

With that feeling in mind,

Let's carefully wrap each part.

9. How to store May dolls (helmets and armor) to keep them beautiful and long-lasting

Things to note after storage and how to choose the best insect repellent

To keep your May doll beautiful for a long time,

The storage environment after storage is very important.

Once storage is complete,

Store in a well-ventilated place out of direct sunlight .



Humid closets and

Avoid places where the air conditioning or heating is blowing directly on you.

Insect repellent is also essential.

We recommend natural materials such as camphor ,

An odorless insect repellent made specifically for May dolls.


Be careful when using commercially available detergents for clothing, as the ingredients may be too strong.

The important thing is to be able to decorate it again with a smile a year from now.

To protect gently.


A May doll that watches over your child's growth,


Make sure you have a solid place to stay .