Peace of Paper Designs

Origami Art
By
Cindy Stultz

Washi Paper

Peace of Paper Designs creates unique works of origami art from Washi paper, the traditional Japanese hand-made paper. Master craftspeople, distinguished for their profound skill in papermaking, are considered Living National Treasures. The number of washi papermakers in Japan has dwindled from tens of thousands in the 1800's to an estimated 100 or so families today.

There are different types of washi paper, but all use native plants such as kozo (mulberry), mitsumata, and gampi. The beautiful designs printed on Chiyogami washi paper are silk-screened by hand, one color at a time, and often inspired by kimono fabrics and accented with gold.