Handmade Paper

Before industrial papermaking, handmade sheets were the standard support for calligraphy and the decorative arts. They have never really been displaced. Modern machine papers are excellent and consistent, but handmade sheets carry a texture and irregularity that artists keep coming back to.

Properties and uses

These papers are made from cellulose fibres drawn from bamboo, plane, pine, spruce, beech and cedar. The fibres are soaked in hot water, formed into sheets, and coloured with natural pigments where a tone is wanted. The result is acid-free, free of toxic content, easier to recycle than synthetic papers, and notably absorbent — which is why they hold ink so well.

Beyond calligraphy, they suit drawing and painting techniques of most kinds, printmaking and collage.

Where the best sheets come from

The finest handmade papers still come from the traditional papermaking cultures of Asia. Japan, India and Nepal continue to produce acid-free sheets by hand, with some lines adapted for contemporary studio use.

Our paper range includes Awagami Factory washi from Japan, made by traditional methods on the Yoshinogawa river, alongside acid-free Nepalese and Indian handmade papers in a wide range of colours.