Washi Paper

Washi is the traditional art of Japan. Washi paper, also called wagami refers to all types of Japanese Paper including traditional handmade paper.

Washi paper is produced from the bark fibers of three shrubs (kozo, gampi, and mitsumata) making up the washi makers basic raw materials. All occur naturally in most parts of Japan. Washi paper can also be made using a blend of fibers from bamboo, hemp, rice and wheat. The sheets are tough but possess a warm and a soft texture. Washi is tougher than paper made from wood pulp. Origami, Shodo, Ukiyoe are all produced using washi.

Making washi is a highly labor-intensive craft. It involves a mix of drudgery and developed skills. The techniques are largely straightforward and uncomplicated. Yet, one person cannot perform every aspect of making paper--it is a true community craft.

Making of Washi Paper

• Take the bark fibers of kozo, gampi or mitsumata.
• The fibers are cropped, stripped, bleached and boiled in lye to remove the non fibrous materials.
• These fibers are finally washed, graded and pulped.
• Mucilage is added to the pulp to produce an emulsion in which fibers are suspended.
• Each sheet requires several dips into a vat of stock.
• The sheets are then pressed to remove excess water and are separated and brushed onto fine grained wooden boards to dry.
• The sheets are then gathered and cut to the required size.
• This makes a beautiful washi handmade paper.

Types of Washi Paper

• Ganpishi- In the ancient time, it was called Hishi. Ganpishi has a smooth, shiny surface and is used for books and crafts.
• Kozogami- Kozogami is made from paper mulberry and it is the most widely made type of washi. It has a toughness closer to a cloth than a paper and does not weaken significantly when treated to be water resistant.
• Mitsumatagami- Mitsumatagami has an ivory colored, fine surface and is used for shodo as well as printing. It was used to print paper money in Meiji period.

Applications of Washi Paper

• Washi paper is the material of the craftsman and architecture, the tea master, the painter and calligrapher; paper screens.
• Washi, is one of the four materials- wood, earth, paper, reeds of a traditional Japanese house.
• Different types of washi may be used for water color, calligraphy, woodblock and linoleum cut printing, collage, book binding and even jewelry and sculpture.
• The distinct colors and textures are also used to make business cards, resumes, wallets, purses and photo layouts.
• A large number of paper are compatible with laser and offset printing.
• Washi is also used to make various everyday goods like clothes, interior goods and toys.
• It is also used to make sacred clothes of Shinto priest, a statue of Buddha and a wreath for winners.
• Many traditional uses of the paper have endured: origami, kites, doll and umbrella-making and unparalleled packaging.
• Today, its uses are limitless: paper jewellery to cover mats in framing used as a background for photography and to develop photographs on to cover walls and furniture to produce memorable wedding invitations and for a host of graphic design and public relations promotions.