Washi is the Japanese word meaning 'handmade paper' and refers to all types of Japanese papers in general. Japanese Papers traditionally use the inner barks of the Kozo, Gampi and Mitsumata plants, which are all native to Japan. Japanese papers are well-known for their longevity, strength and softness to the touch.

Chiyogami or Yuzen (both these words are used to describe the same paper) is used to describe one type of Japanese paper. These are hand-silk screened mulberry papers many of which are embellished with gold and consist of repeated patterns. Chiyogami/Yuzen patterns are based on traditional designs, including flowers, plants, butterflies, birds or geometric patterns. Nowadays, designers often use fashion trends to inspire their modern patterns.

They are one of the most popular Japanese papers as they can be used in a wide range of projects, such as in card making, invitations, scrapbooking, collage, bookbinding, covering boxes, jewellery making, decorative eggs, iris folding, tea bag folding, origami, lampshades, framing and mounting as art - the list is endless.

Since many Chiyogami/Yuzen papers are embellished with gold, our manufacturer cannot guarantee that these papers are acid-free. However, we know that many people have used these papers in their scrapbooking, however we would always suggest that individual papers are tested first prior to use, or some method of protection is used, such as a protective spray.

Rice Paper is often falsely used to refer to Washi or handmade Japanese Papers in general, rather than paper made from rice. Like Washi, there are many different types of Rice Papers, such as Chiyogami/Yuzen, Japanese Hemp, Japanese Lace and Unryu, to name a few. Sometimes people use Rice Paper to mean the white to off-white colour of plain papers that are used in Shoji (Calligraphy) and Sumi-e (Brush Painting).

Yes, you can, however please note that the papers are not flame-proof. In Japan, these papers have been used for hundreds of years in their natural form in all types of lampshades. They simply maintain a safe distance between the paper and bulb. Protective sprays can be purchased from art and craft stores, but it is best to do a patch test first, as some sprays may alter the colour or nature of the paper.

Yes, we do. Please contact us for further details regarding prices and sheet sizes.