CHIYOGAMI

Chiyogami is screen-printed decorative Japanese paper (washi). The paper itself is made from kozo fibre, the inner bark of a type of mulberry bush. Unlike Katazome-shi, Chiyogami papers have cut edges rather than deckle edges as this paper is now made by machine rather than by hand.

 

The many different patterns originated as kimono cloth designs and the history of these papers goes back to the mid 20th century when kimono-wearing became less common, and the cloth printers looked for a way to diversify their business. Each colour in the design is hand-printed with a different silk-screen, and the screens are carefully registered to ensure accurate printing.  Many, but not all Chiyogami designs include metallic inks, which are the last to be applied.

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While the printed colours are rich and resistant to fading, the unprinted areas of the paper are a natural off-white colour. The finish is soft and almost matte, yet kozo paper is very strong and resistant to water and abrasion, which makes it suitable for all sorts of craft and interior projects, including bookbinding, lampshades, wallpaper and covering almost anything you can think of, such as books, wooden furniture, boxes, vases etc. 

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The papers are each available in 4 sizes, (the size refers to the printed surface, not including the unprinted deckle edges).  The price per sheet starts at CHF4.00 for 22x30cm (slightly smaller than A4). 

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I recommend Yamato Nori paste for use with all  Japanese papers.