Traditional Japanese Paper Adds Flair and Sophistication

There’s little doubt that traditional Japanese paper, Washi, has earned a global reputation for being a high-quality product. Washi paper integrates intimately with Japanese culture. For insights, consider the origin of the name.

“Wa” means “Japanese” and “shi” means “paper,” so it’s evident this material has long been an integral part of Japanese heritage and identity. The specialty paper uses local fiber from Japanese shrubs and trees and then undergoes vigorous manual processing.

Constant Development Raises Washi Paper Production to an Artform

Historical sources indicate that Washi paper first arrived in Japan thanks to Korean Buddhist priest Doncho. As they’re known to do, the Japanese took the original techniques he taught and advanced them to a new level. They used local fiber sources to make the paper as efficient and durable as possible.

Using textile-type materials like Kozo and Gampi added substantial strength to the paper, significantly extending it’s longevity and making it even more versatile.

Master’s at crafts loved working with the material so much that over thirteen hundred years of production, it became a foundation for numerous Japanese artforms. Production of the paper was such an intrinsic part of Japanese culture that entire towns sprang up around making Washi paper.

All these years later, Washi paper continues to evolve. Centuries of use and a global customer base ensure that it will remain essential. Let’s consider some of the applications for Washi in modern times.

Washi has proven itself a strong contender in the digital printing space. The same qualities that make it attractive for traditional uses are also ideal for printing. Durability and versatility are among the reasons that printers use Washi.

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Discover Washi for Printable Paper

White washi paper for digital printing gives you several different options for producing the highest-quality printed documents.

  • Yama – The production process for this paper uses wood pulp from coniferous trees. That makes the finished product suitable for greeting cards, invitations, envelopes, and stamp-books.
  • Kawa – Edofiber uses dedicated machines to produce this type of paper while retaining its hand-made appeal. This printable form of Washi is suited for food service.
  • Kumo – Kumo is similar to Kawa but uses a mix of Rayon fiber. The end product is printable and commonly used in foodservice.

Washi Paper Is Ideal for Office Supplies

Washi is gaining traction in the office supply sector. The material makes an excellent source of packaging paper, stationery, and craft supplies. Washi packaging papers come in a broad range of colors and styles, so it’s easy to find something perfect for any project. Make sure to check out our extensive collection for inspiration.

Washi Products Are Integral for Food Service Companies

Foodservice and restaurant supply companies buy and sell Washi paper, often to enhance traditional-style Japanese dining experiences. Washi paper and Japanese chopsticks go hand in hand and remain an enduring symbol of the nation’s work ethic and mastery of the art of paper-making.

About Edofiber

Edofiber is a world-leading supplier of Washi paper and has all of the solutions you need. We constantly innovate and bring new products to life, so make sure to stop back often to keep up with all the latest news.