Japanese crafts: traditional paper folding

From the words "chiyo," meaning "a thousand generations," and "kami," meaning "paper," a form of folding paper, chiyogami, is popular for its inspiring imagery and affordability. One of the many oriental gifts available in our inventory, the Shimayu chiyogami papers are brightly colored with images that inspire hope. The more traditional inspiring motifs on these papers have always been plum blossoms, pine, and bamboo, the latter two items being evergreen and the former having the unique quality of producing blooms even when snow lies heavily on its branches. Cranes and tortoises are popular motifs too, both as imagery on these printed papers used for Japanese crafts and as the final folded paper sculpture. Chiyogami dates back to the Edo period when Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate, 1603 to 1868, when a strict caste system limited artisan resources and papermaking centers began producing these affordable versions of tradition washi. Please let use the navagation on the left to find the perfect oriental gift.

Bamboo, hemp, rice and wheat plants, the gampi tree, mitsumata shrub, and the paper mulberry are all used for making Japanese washi. "Wa" means "Japanese," and "shi" means paper in this culture recognized for its innovation and artistry; this particular product is known for its soft but textured hand and its intricate designs. Also, its optimal suitability for folding, and, to the chagrin of many an origamist it has a high price. Fortunately, a more affordable version of washi, chiyogami, can be used for this most satisfying of Japanese crafts. An exquisite array of chiyogami paper fills our inventory of oriental gifts and make great Japanese home decor. Anyone interested in delving into this Japanese art form would be delighted to use these multi-colored papers bedecked in cranes, plum blossoms, or waterlilies.