Introduction of Echizen Washi

About Washi paper

The culture of paper was introduced from China and completed in Japan. There are almost 2 method to make paper which is called "TAME-SUKI" and "NAFASHI-SUKI"

Tame-suki is a method in which fibers are scooped up from paper material solution into a "SU" or mould and still be used for name card, diploma and post card at present.

Nagashi-suki is a method that the pulpy water scooped into the screen is flowed across the vat and foam the complex wavy pattern until a thickness will be expected by repeated its method. A fine Japanese paper can be made from fibers taken from the bark of a clove like bush called Ganpi-shi, Torinoko-shi, Komagami, Fusuma-shi, Hosho, Gasen-shi and etc.

Though the techniques of making paper, Washi paper gives beauty and warmth to everybody still in production now.

Hosho

The original purpose of his paper was for government authorities to write the oral commands of the Shogun in his name for him to sign and to affix his official seal. It currently remains in use as wood-block print paper and certificates.

Gasen-shi

Originally a calligraphy writing and ink drawing paper imported from China during the Edo period (1603 - 1867). It is used for SHO, Japanese painting and regular printing.

Torinoko

Torinoko literally means "child of the bird or egg" and it must have been derived from the unbleached color of the paper that resembled the color of a light yellow bird egg. It is used for stationery and cards, art printing, sliding panel paper, and semi-official documents.

Komagami

Originally, a paper often is used for wrapping. It was decorated with a pretty design. The scope of application gradually developed from a small sized sheet to such large sized paper as panel paper with patterns. It is used for cards, envelopes, writing paper and wrapping paper.

Kyoku-shi

In literal, it is a bureau paper. A thick mitsumata paper, smooth, it is strongly pliant with sharp reproduction printability. It is used for bank checks, greeting cards, stock certificates and business cards.

Matters required in handling

• No Fire. Fireproofing is not done.
• Paper will be tear or rip if treated roughly.
• Please prevent from extreme moisture and dried place, and also please don't leave around an air conditioner.
• Please prevent from direct lay of sun and ultraviolet rays. Discoloration and deterioration may occur.

Figure: Mr. Haruo Yanase as a traditional craftsman

Atelier

In 1950, the atelier was reformed and moved the place at present.

The factory was built for manufacturing the Japanese bills after World War II . This section was called Shoshi division and most Echizen Washi craftsmen worked at this factory.

At the golden age of a period of highly growth of Japan, there used to be more than 70 craftsmen worked but the number of craftsmen decreased with hand made then after machine making paper was installed. Fusuma paper is now the main production but still making paper even a small quantity.

Paticular about the production

The preparation of making paper is to remove the impurities as following in the footsteps of predecessors and also to save the chemical product as possible.

We only ship each product to be satisfied by a customer. We are very happy if a customer can use and enjoy our product as long.

As for your custom order request, please inform us your request of size and purpose to use, then we would like to reply to you with our idea for your request. Please feel free to ask any request to us.