Japanese Paper Crafts – All About the Paper

By Sirena Van Schaik

When I first learned how to make origami, I was in grade four and my teacher simply supplied the class with regular printer paper cut into small squares. She didn’t use fancy paper and she definitely didn’t use Japanese paper. As children, we didn’t really know that there was a difference and with a lot of grumbling, some lip biting and a few mutter curses (that we made sure the teacher didn’t hear), we were able to produce the origami that she was showing us.

Of course, the end result was a white balloon and a white crane and it lacked the substance that is found in many origami pieces. We chalked it up to being clumsy children attempting origami for the first time. We were probably partially right, I mean no one can try origami for the first time and come out with a masterpiece but over the years, I realized that even the most intricate, well done piece of Japanese paper art is lacking if it isn’t actually done with Japanese paper.

If you are interested in creating Japanese paper art in a large amount, you are probably going to want to do it right and that means that you are going to have to purchase the Japanese paper. But what is Japanese paper exactly? Well, thankfully you have stopped here before you went off to buy your paper and we can look through the many different types of Japanese paper before you go shopping.

Washi:

Before we look at some of the different types of paper, it is important to understand that Japanese paper is called Washi. This paper is generally tougher than regular paper, which makes it perfect for folding and creating art from. It is actually made from several different types of fibres and although it goes through a similar manufacturing process as regular paper, the process uses fewer chemicals and is chiefly done in the winter to prevent bacteria from forming, thus weakening the paper. It is also created on a screen where a thin layer of fibre mash is spread out over it.

As I mentioned, Washi is made from different fibres, such as Mitsumata shrub, mulberry, and bamboo and the finished paper changes depending on the bark that is used.

Washi paper can be found in many different styles and patterns and I have touched on them below.

Plain:

When we think of plain paper, we often just think of white printer paper. No fuss, no muss and it is all pretty boring. Of course, that isn’t the case with plain Washi paper. It can be found in an array of textures and colors and even thicknesses. There are several types of plain Washi paper and they are listed below.

Rakusuishi: This is a very thin paper that is often used for Japanese screens. Generally, with this paper has a bit of transparency and an almost lacy effect to it.

Danshi: This is a white Japanese paper that is perfect for writing on. It makes an excellent choice for wedding invitations if you are looking for a Japanese element to your wedding.

Mingeishi: A very strong paper that is ideal for creating envelopes; it is generally made with mulberry bark and it is handmade.

Momigami: A very good origami paper, this paper adds the element of having a different color on each side, which creates some spectacular finished pieces.

Itajimezomeshi: This is a perfect paper for making paper flowers since the dying process leaves a beautiful pattern on the paper.

Patterned Washi:

Many people, when they are creating Japanese paper crafts, prefer to use a patterned paper. Like the plain Washi, patterned Washi can be found in several types and I have listed them below.

Sarasagami: This is a beautiful paper that combines Japanese paper with the ethnic prints of many different cultures, although primarily Spain and Portugal.

Karakami: This patterned paper is made on dyed Washi paper with stamped designs and it is a perfect paper for making screens.

Edo Chiyogami: This brightly patterned paper is one that is often used for stationary and can add a wonderful touch to handwritten letters.

Once you decide on the craft you are planning on making, all you need to do is find the right Japanese paper to create. Even though I have outlined some of the different types of Japanese paper, there are hundreds of colors and patterns to choose from so the final beauty can be endless.