Western Paper and Washi (Japanese paper)

Often, the best way to understand new things is to compare them to familiar ones. Therefore, a comparison between the materials and methods used in making Western paper and washi is helpful in gaining a better understanding and appreciation for washi.

Western Paper

  • Usually made from short fibers; now often wood pulp used.
  • Plant materials are principal ingredients but materials are often added (sizing, mixture. fillers, etc.)
  • Bleached by chemical methods; tends to weaken and shorten the life of the fibers.
  • Beating method tends to cut fibers into short lengths.
  • Manufacturing does not require the use of aid.

Washi

  • Long bast fibers used.
  • Usually no other materials other added to fiber mixture
  • Unbleached or natural bleaching methods used.
  • Beating method roughens and separates fibers; length not affected.
  • Manufacturing process formation (nagashizuki) requires the use of NIERI, a viscous formation aid.

Western Paper

  • Made by the TAMEZUKI method; one dip method; fibers in random alignment.
  • Pressed to remove as much moisture as possible to bond fibers into a strong sheet
  • High pressure used during pressing.
  • Paper hung over ropes to dry. High shrinkage rate, cockling often occurs.
  • requiring additional pressing to flatten
  • Paper tends to be heavy and thick.
  • Paper is usually stiff and firrm.
  • Paper is opaque.
  • Paper variety and characteristics limited.

possible

Washi

  • Made by NAGASHIZUKI, fibers paper built layer by layer, fibers aligned in direction of rocking motion.
  • Pressed gradually, removes only 30% of moisture content; fiber bonding occurs gradually.
  • Gradual pressure used.
  • Brushed on flat surfaces to dry low shrinkage rate; dries flat
  • Paper is lighter and thinner.
  • Paper is more flexible and porous; permits ventilation.
  • Paper is translucent.
  • Variety of characteristics