Chiyogami
comes from the words chiyo, meaning 'thousand generation' and gami,
meaning 'paper'. Chiyogami is a washi paper from Japan that has been
hand stenciled or printed with traditional Japanese imagery using bright
colors and patterns. Chiyogami paper, also called
yuzen paper is
considered to be a testimony to the renowned Japanese tradition of
papermaking.
During the Edo period (1603-1867), chiyogami was an outcome of the many
established papermaking centers throughout Japan. It was the paper of
choice by many who could not afford the beautiful washi papers. Like
washi paper, its popularity spread from Kyoto, to Edo (modern Tokyo),
and Osaka. It is from these three main cities that it is still being
manufactured and sold by a handful of woodblock printers.
A medley of ancient and modern designs are found on the chiyogami
papers. These papers can be designed with timeless patterns reminiscent
of ocean waves, sand dunes, clouds, scrolls, and honeycombs. These
papers can be handpainted by woodblock printers with motifs shimmered in
an elegant metallic gold. Traditional prints are often emblems of long
life and happiness (cranes and tortoises) or auspicious symbols of good
fortune (pine trees, flowering plum trees and bamboo). Chiyogami designs
may also symbolize every day life, events and activities.
Chiyogami paper has gained tremendous popularity among people of Japan
because of its great visual appearance and less cost than other of the
washi paper. It is a strong and a flexible paper.
Applications of Chiyogami Paper
Chiyogami paper was traditionally used to craft paper objects
especially dolls. It is also valued as a paper for folders and adds
richness to any craft project. Handmade chiyogami paper is ideal for
decorating collage and book arts and perfect as deck accessories and
stationery. The striking pigment colours, careful registration of
screens and wide range of designs make these papers ideal for picture
mats, books and box making.
