When it comes to paper, Asian makers have the most variety and types that are popular to designers and to paper craftsmen. Washi in Japanese literally means “paper”. This kind of paper are used in many types of designs. The way this paper is manufactured usually involves traditional techniques which are usually handmade. This type of traditional Japanese paper is made from a variety of sources including, mitsumata, mulberry bark, bamboo, rice, hemp and wheat. Compared to papers made by the west, they are usually of higher quality because of the strong fibers which composes them. Washi can be made into a variety of stuff including clothing and toys. In the past, they were historically used for calligraphy and are also perfect for origami.
This type of paper is usually very difficult to acquire since it takes a long time to create. Producing them requires cold spring water only available during winter. This makes it difficult for bacteria to grow and not a lot of chemicals are required in their manufacturing. Read more here!
The production of this wonderful type of paper starts when Kozo branches are boiled and then dried. It is again boiled along with lye and then rinsed. The fibers that remain are bleached and the impurities removed. The materials are then placed on top of a rock to be beaten. The pulp is then mixed with a tub or vat of water. A screen will then be used and shaken. When tororo root gets added, the washi or paper becomes thinner. This makes it suitable for many applications including calligraphy, paper craft, clothing and even walls for a traditional Japanese house.
The paper can be put or printed with many beautiful designs. Quality washi are those that are handmade. Washi was originally used as paper for kimono designs to be printed on. For many modern applications, the paper are great for designers and artists who want to make origami designs and oriental fashion. Washi have very good qualities for basic applications as well. They are great for packaging, stationary and for printing. Right now, it is highly affordable for the many needs in office, business or personal use. There are manufacturing companies too that have produced and perfected the making of this paper using bamboo pulp and other types of materials. Even machine-made washi paper right now have the same or even better quality as the ones originally processed. Get more info on this page: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paper.
