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The Wonders Of Washi Paper
October 17, 2007

Washi is a type of paper made in Japan. Washi is commonly made using fibers from the bark of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub, or the paper mulberry, but also can be made using bamboo, hemp, rice, and wheat. Washi means paper, and the term is used to describe paper made by hand in the traditional manner.

Apartment Therapy found lamps designed by Eriko Horiki for Kozai Designs. You may investigate, as I did, art made by using washi papers and discover a great way to add natural color and texture to your home.



One author, Susan Lomuto, at Polymer Clay Notes, has posted many times about “paper art, paper jewelry, paper toys and paper techniques.”  She shows an example of dry folding of washi paper (left) and how much more alive is the wet folding (right):

       

She links to Eric Joisel who has taken the use of washi paper to a another level with this example:



As with salt crystal lamps, I am struck by the colors and textures that are produced using washi paper and its myriad uses from art to shoji screens and room dividers to lamps.  I can see the clean contemporary design as a natural adjunct to a new loft or contemporary condo.

Thoughts or comments are more than welcome.  Email them to me at landfair3554@comcast.net

Posted by Mike Landfair on October 17, 2007 | Comments (0)