Hand Papermaking for the Art of Origami

By Michael G. LaFosse, Origamido Studio Check out this step-by-step tutorial on the complex art of papermaking! [twocol_one] Materials Only the finest archival plant fibers are used for origami papermaking. Clockwise, from top left: abaca, gampi, flax, and cotton rag. Gampi and the flax shown must first be cooked in a mild alkali and then thoroughly rinsed before beating. Other dried, semi-processed fibers must first be soaked in water before beating. Beaten fibers may also be blended to impart qualities of each to the resulting paper. Each design requires a …

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Add Some Artistry to Your Holidays – Japanese Gift Wrap

Japan is famous for its culture of craftsmanship, and one of its most important crafts is paper. So it’s no surprise that the intersection of Japan’s rich culture of gift giving and its love and reverence for paper would be intricate and beautiful gift wrapping. The art of gift wrap, or tsutsumu, is an important part of any exchange of gifts. The paper you choose, the contrast of colors and textures, the ribbon, string or bows you add, and the folds, pleats and designs you create with the wrapping let the …

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