Have you ever imagined the journey a single sheet of washi paper takes, the time and stories it accumulates before reaching your hands?
In this digital age, what is it that still draws us to “paper”? Perhaps it’s because paper, especially handmade washi, is not merely an object; it embodies the very breath of its maker and the vibrant life force of the land from which it came.
Here in Shimane, the sacred land where myths breathe and nature thrives, Izumo Mingei-shi has established its studio. What we cherish most in our washi-making tradition is to maximize the unique individuality of each natural blessing that becomes our raw material. “Gampi should be gampi, Mitsumata should be mitsumata, and Kozo should be kozo” – this philosophy is the origin and the entirety of our papermaking.
The length, strength, and luster of each plant fiber. To preserve these qualities and bring out their utmost charm, we are committed to meticulous handcraftsmanship that minimizes damage to the fibers. Each sheet is carefully formed, our hands immersed in cold water, our entire body engaged in the delicate process of paper-making. It is a quiet, revered time, akin to a dialogue with nature.
In this article, we will delve into the three mystical raw materials that form the foundation of Izumo Mingei-shi, their profound allure, and the story of how they transform into a single sheet of washi paper. At the end of this journey, you are sure to find that destined piece that resonates with what you wish to express and convey.
Washi Raw Material ① 【Gampi】The Silken Radiance that Lives for a Millennium: The “King of Washi” Narrates Eternal Time
Gampi is revered since ancient times as the “King of Washi,” positioned as the highest-grade raw material among all washi fibers. The paper it produces is as smooth as silk, emanating an elegant luster that seems to glow from within. Once you hold it, you will undoubtedly be captivated by its beauty and timeless presence.
“Phantom Wood” Shrouded in Mystery
Gampi belongs to the deciduous shrubs of the Thymelaeaceae family, but its ecology is largely enigmatic. Due to its extremely delicate nature, artificial cultivation remains almost impossible. We venture into the rugged mountains of the Shimane Peninsula to gather only the wild-growing plants. It takes a long 20 years for gampi to mature, and harvesting is only possible during a brief period around June when the tree is most active. It is, truly, a precious bounty granted only to those permitted by nature.
Thirty Years of Maturation Yields Ultimate Paper Quality
At the Izumo Mingei-shi studio, freshly harvested gampi is never used immediately. After drying, it is left to rest quietly for at least several years, often for more than 30, undergoing a process of maturation. During this long slumber, impurities (astringency) are removed from the fibers, making them stronger and more supple. Gampi fibers, awakened after an eternity, are astonishingly fine, long, and robust. Washi made from these exquisite fibers never bleeds ink or pigments, faithfully capturing the writer’s keen sensibilities and intricate brushwork.
Ancient Techniques Revived by a Living National Treasure, Eishiro Abe
Gampi paper, known as “Hishi” since the Nara period, was used for important documents requiring permanent preservation, such as sutra copying and official records, due to its beauty and strength. However, its demanding production process led to a significant decline over time. It was Eishiro Abe, the founder of Izumo Mingei-shi and a designated Living National Treasure, who dedicated his life to researching and successfully reviving these almost lost ancient papermaking techniques. The gampi paper he resurrected is remarkably resistant to discoloration and insect damage, proven to retain its luster even after a thousand years. Gampi paper is like a time capsule that carries your thoughts and works far into the future.
Recommended Uses
Use it as a “special sheet” in your life for writings you wish to preserve for posterity, important contracts, fish prints (gyotaku), rubbings, sutra copying, woodblock prints, mounting for calligraphy and paintings, and more.
Washi Raw Material ② 【Mitsumata】Elegant Luster Imbued with Intellect and Refinement
In early spring, while other trees are still in their winter slumber, Mitsumata blooms with adorable yellow flowers, announcing the arrival of spring to the mountain villages. As its name suggests (“mitsu-mata” meaning “three-forked”), it’s a unique deciduous shrub of the Thymelaeaceae family, similar to gampi, whose branches invariably divide into three. Washi made from mitsumata features a gentle, elegant ivory hue and a fine, beautiful luster.
The Meticulous Fiber Chosen for Banknotes
Mitsumata’s use as a washi raw material has a relatively shorter history, dating back to the Edo period. However, its superior quality was quickly recognized, leading to its adoption as the raw material for Japanese banknotes in the Meiji era. This is due to mitsumata’s extremely fine fibers, which can accurately reproduce precise printed lines, and its suitability for creating watermarks essential for counterfeit prevention. This government-approved quality will undoubtedly shine in your creative endeavors.
A Delightful, Smooth Writing Experience for Your Pen
One of mitsumata paper’s greatest charms is its smooth surface. Ink bleeding is remarkably minimal, and when writing with a fountain pen or glass pen, you’ll experience a pleasant, gliding sensation as the nib moves across the paper. It will surely enrich and make more special the time you spend expressing your thoughts in letters or diaries. Furthermore, the unique, moist texture that adheres softly to the skin when held is characteristic of mitsumata paper. It is a washi that can be enjoyed with all five senses.
Recommended Uses
Ideal for delicate expressions and intricate work such as penmanship, fountain pen writing, letter writing, lithography, book printing, torn paper art (chigiri-e), and paper cutting (kiri-e).
Washi Raw Material ③ 【Kozo】Earthy Warmth that Embraces Japanese Life
When many people think of “washi,” they likely envision paper made from kozo. Its simple, natural texture, like it has absorbed plenty of sunlight, and its nostalgic, warm feel. Kozo paper is a quintessential “washi-like washi,” nurtured within Japan’s climate and culture.
The Origin of Washi: The Secret of Strength and Gentleness
Kozo belongs to the mulberry family and possesses astonishing vitality, growing nearly 3 meters in just one year. Its fibers are the longest and strongest among all paper raw materials. The fibers intricately yet gently intertwine, creating a pliable and durable paper that resists tearing even when thinly made, and withstands repeated handling and processing. Think of the shoji screens and fusuma sliding doors traditionally used in Japanese homes. They softly diffuse light, regulate humidity, and endure years of use. It is precisely the power of kozo fibers that achieves both this functionality and beauty.
A Versatile Partner to Adorn Your Life
Most washi produced nationwide uses kozo as its raw material. The reasons are its ease of processing due to its strength, and its wide range of applications. Besides traditional art forms like calligraphy and woodblock printing, kozo is increasingly used for interior materials such as lampshades and wallpaper, as well as wrapping paper, washi accessories, and more. Its rustic texture blends naturally into any space, bringing tranquility and color to daily life. While natural materials are inherently susceptible to insect damage, special treatments are now applied to prevent this, ensuring long-lasting and worry-free use.
Recommended Uses
For calligraphy with a brush, sumi-e (ink painting), woodblock prints, rubbings, large-scale artwork, wallpaper, fusuma paper, wrapping, and various other washi crafts – in all aspects of daily life.
Which One is Right for You? A Washi Guide by Purpose
Each raw material possesses its own rich personality. For those who find it hard to choose, we’ve prepared a guide to help you select based on your purpose.
【For those who wish to preserve precious memories forever】 → Gampi Paper
- Keywords: Permanent preservation, luxury feel, luster, non-bleeding
- Examples: Wedding guest book, child’s growth record, your magnum opus
【For those who want to fully enjoy delicate expressions】 → Mitsumata Paper
- Keywords: Smooth, fine, pen writing, elegant
- Examples: Diary written with a fountain pen, botanical art, calligraphy
【For those who want to incorporate the warmth of washi into daily life】 → Kozo Paper
- Keywords: Durable, rustic, texture, versatile
- Examples: Creating original book covers, seasonal table coordination, handmade gift envelopes (pochibukuro)
Of course, these are just a few examples. Feel free to break free from conventional ideas and enjoy your dialogue with washi with your own creative spirit. You might just discover an unexpected chemical reaction and open a new door to expression.
Bring Authentic Washi into Your Daily Life: A Message from Izumo Mingei-shi
At Izumo Mingei-shi, we steadfastly adhere to our commitment: without blending them, we use each of the three raw materials introduced here individually, striving to maximize their inherent characteristics in our papermaking.
The solitary “Gampi,” inscribed with an eternal history.
The graceful “Mitsumata,” quietly narrating intelligence and refinement.
The warm “Kozo,” gently embracing daily life with its generous spirit.
When you hold a sheet of washi, please take a moment to reflect on the magnificent natural processes and the diligent craftsmanship behind it. Doing so will transform that single sheet from mere paper into an irreplaceable partner for you.
Now, which washi is best suited for what you wish to express and convey? We invite you to explore our online shop and experience its rich textures and reliable feel with all your senses.