TEST Papermaking and Beyond

Japanese paper known as washi is characterized by its thinness and strength and the technique is applicable to all plant fibers. This class covers all the steps of Japanese papermaking, starting with pulp preparation, cooking and scraping the fibers clean, and then beating them into pulp. Participants form sheets using the nagashizuki method with flexible screens as is practiced in Japan with kozu, gampi, and abaca (Philippine hemp) fibers. Students also explore decorative and very large sheets of paper. This method does not demand expensive Japanese screens (sugeta) and equipment, but instead is adaptable to our own western studios. No papermaking experience is required. A supply fee is payable to the instructor, and varies depending on the materials used. {TERMS:Wedding invitations|making paper|2-dimensional art|illuminations|signature|paper craft}