Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If your question is not answered in the FAQ, please contact us through this email form.

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About Izumo Washi

What kind of paper is Izumo Mingei-shi?

Izumo Mingei-shi is a Japanese paper that was created by Eishiro Abe under the guidance of Soetsu Yanagi.

The main characteristic of Izumo Mingei-shi can be described in one phrase: “Paper that brings out the natural qualities of its raw materials.”

For more details, please visit this page.

What types of washi do you carry?

We carry various products made from Izumo Mingei-shi. We offer a wide range of washi products to suit various purposes, from practical items such as writing paper, letter sets, and notebooks to craft items like daruma dolls.

Young craft artists also often request to use Izumo Mingei-shi, and we actively engage in developing new applications for washi. If you have unique ideas, please feel free to consult with us here.

Do you accommodate custom sizes or made-to-order washi?

Yes, we do. The two main sizes of paper we commonly produce are “large sheet” (62cm height x 100cm width) and “long sheet” (42cm height x 135cm width). We can cut these to your preferred size within these dimensions.

The thickness of the paper can be customized based on “currency thickness,” “hanshi (thin Japanese paper) thickness,” or “drawing paper thickness,” depending on your needs and intended use.

For color selection, we can provide a sample book (1,100 yen including tax), from which you can choose your preferred color.

How should I preserve and care for washi?

Washi should be stored in a well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Wrapping it in newspaper or washi can provide protection, and using a paulownia box or chest can prevent moisture and insect damage.

Use appropriate moisture absorbers and insect repellents, and air the paper in a shaded area once every few months to prevent mold and insect damage. For maintenance, dust off with a soft brush and avoid contact with water.

By following these practices, you can maintain the texture and quality of Izumo Mingei-shi for a long time.

Orders and Payment

How do I place an order?

Please select the products you wish to purchase from our shop and place your order. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us here.

What payment methods are available?

Payment methods include bank transfer, postal transfer, Japan Post Bank transfer, credit card (PayPal), cash on delivery, and credit card on delivery.

Please note that any transfer fees will be the customer’s responsibility.

Can you issue receipts or delivery slips?

Yes, we can. When placing your order, please include a note in the remarks field requesting a “receipt (or delivery slip).”

Can I order products that are not listed on your website?

Yes, we will accommodate your request to the extent possible. Please contact us with details about the product, quantity, delivery deadline, etc.

For inquiries, please contact us here.

Shipping Information

How much is the shipping fee?

The shipping fee within Japan is 880 yen (tax included) flat rate nationwide.

For customers who purchase a total of 10,000 yen or more, shipping is free.

For international shipping, we charge 10,000 yen for international delivery.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship worldwide. We use EMS (Express Mail Service) for international deliveries.

What shipping options are available?

For deliveries within Japan, we ship via Yamato Transport courier service. For overseas deliveries, we use EMS (Express Mail Service) through Japan Post.

How long will it take for my order to arrive?

For deliveries within Japan, we typically deliver within 2-5 days after confirming payment. If you select “cash on delivery” as your payment method, we will ship the product immediately upon confirming your order, and it will arrive in 1-2 days. For international shipping, delivery times vary depending on the destination country. Thank you for your understanding.

Can I change the delivery address after placing an order?

Yes, if the order has not been shipped yet. We would appreciate it if you could contact us as soon as possible.

Returns and Exchanges

Can I return or exchange products?: We accept returns or exchanges for defective products such as damaged items.
What should I do if I receive a defective product?: We will promptly exchange it for a proper product. Please contact our store.
What is your cancellation policy?: We accept cancellations only before the product is shipped. Please contact us as soon as possible.

Other Information

Do you offer gift wrapping services?

Yes, we do. Please indicate this in the “remarks” field when placing your order. Our richly textured Izumo Mingei-shi products make wonderful gifts that are always appreciated.

Can I purchase samples?

Yes, you can. Please specify your desired dimensions, number of sheets, thickness, color, etc. through our inquiry form. You can check the actual texture and color of our products.

Can you provide information about the history and manufacturing process of washi?

Yes, we can. Our website also introduces the history and manufacturing process of washi, so please take a look. We showcase the charm of Izumo Mingei-shi, which fuses tradition and innovation.

I would like to know about Eishiro Abe.

Eishiro Abe (1902-1984) is a person who symbolizes modern papermaking.

Born in a papermaking house in Yakumo Town in 1902, he met Soetsu Yanagi, the founder of the Mingei (folk craft) movement, in 1931 and created Izumo Mingei-shi.

He was also involved in folk craft activities himself and developed close friendships with potters Bernard Leach, Kanjiro Kawai, and Shoji Hamada, as well as woodblock print artist Shiko Munakata.

For more details about Eishiro Abe, please visit this page.

Where is the Izumo Mingei-shi Workshop? Can I visit?

The Izumo Mingei-shi Workshop is located in Higashi-Iwasaka, Yakumo Town, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture.

Visits are possible with advance notice.

For contact information and workshop details, please visit this page.

I would like to visit the Eishiro Abe Memorial Museum.

The Eishiro Abe Memorial Museum is located right next to the Izumo Mingei-shi Workshop.

It was established by Living National Treasure Eishiro Abe with the aim of nurturing washi and passing it on to future generations.

Many of Eishiro’s works are exhibited, offering a glimpse into his life.

The souvenir corner on the first floor also offers a wide selection of original Izumo Mingei-shi products.

For more details, please visit this page.

I would like to visit Eishiro Abe’s residence.

Eishiro Abe’s residence is currently the home of his grandchildren, Shinichiro and Norimasa, so we regret that it is not open to the general public for visits.

The residence is filled with Eishiro Abe’s research materials and letters exchanged with fellow members of the Mingei movement.

Although visits are not possible, you can see what it looks like from here.