How Washi Paper Is Made: A Simple Guide to Traditional Japanese Paper

Washi paper is traditional Japanese paper made by hand using natural plant fibers. Known for its strength, softness, and texture, washi has been used for centuries in tea culture, calligraphy, and daily life.

What Is Washi Paper?

Washi (和紙) means “Japanese paper.” It is made from long plant fibers, mainly:

• Kozo (mulberry)
• Mitsumata
• Gampi

These fibers create a paper that is stronger and more durable than standard Western paper.

Key steps include:

1. Harvesting Kozo

Mulberry branches are steamed and stripped to extract the inner bark.

2. Cleaning the Fibers

The fibers are washed by hand to remove impurities.

3. Cooking

Fibers are boiled to soften them and prepare them for papermaking.

4. Beating

The fibers are beaten into a soft pulp.

5. Sheet Formation (Nagashi-zuki)

The pulp is mixed with water and a natural binder (neri), then layered using a bamboo screen.

6. Pressing and Drying

Sheets are pressed and dried on wooden boards to create the final paper.

 

Why Washi Paper Is Unique

• Strong yet lightweight
• Long-lasting (can last hundreds of years)
• Natural texture and feel
• Made with traditional techniques
  
  

Where Washi Is Made in Japan

Traditional washi is still produced in regions like:

• Echizen
• Mino
• Tosa
• Ehime

These areas are known for their clean water and skilled artisans.

Washi Paper in Tea Culture

Washi is often used in Japanese tea rituals, especially as kaishi paper, for serving sweets or writing notes. It reflects the same values as tea: simplicity, care, and attention to detail.

Explore Washi at Tea Room Senryu

Discover washi paper and stationery inspired by Japanese tea culture 🍵

Kaishi 
https://www.tearoomsenryu.com/collections/seasonal-kaishi-paper

Washi Coaster
https://www.tearoomsenryu.com/collections/washi-coasters 

All our washi papers are from Ehime prefecture.

Who has been to a washi paper-making workshop? let us know!