Washi tape is a decorative adhesive tape that’s sort of like masking tape, but much, much better. It’s made from natural fibers like ganpi, mistumata, kozo, or even hemp, but it can actually be made from almost any plant. Washi Tape: What is Washi Tape & How Do You Use It?

Understanding the Context

- Japan Vault Washi is used in many traditional Japanese arts, such as origami, shodō, and ukiyo-e. It was traditionally used to make various everyday goods like clothes, household goods, and toys, as well as vestments and ritual objects for Shinto priests and statues of Buddhas. What is Washi? Washi is the Japanese word for the traditional papers made from the long inner fibres of three plants, wa meaning Japanese and shi meaning paper.

Key Insights

The name washi literally means "Japanese paper". Today most paper in Japan is made in large automated mills, but a few hundred families in rural villages continue to make washi in the traditional way. Washi: A History of Japanese Papermaking | Robert C. Williams Museum of ... Washi paper is one of of Japan’s most fundamental, and often overlooked, artistic products.

Final Thoughts

During 1,300 years of production it has formed the backbone of many other Japanese artforms. In fact washi paper is so ingrained in Japanese culture, there are literally towns build around washi paper making. Japanese Washi Paper: 8 Things You Need to Know - Japan Objects