HORIKI ERIKO

PROCESS

PRODUCTION STORY MOVIE

Washi making that fuses tradition with innovation

From ancient times, Japanese washi was referred to as “Pure white paper that can reach the gods” and was said “to purify the impure.” We make our washi with between three and seven layers. The outermost layers are always of white washi sheet, added over the multiple inner layers textured with various elements. Behind our craft is the mentality of the craftsmen with their reverence for Japanese tradition and the drive to leave a legacy for the next generation.

Traditional Washi Craft

Adaptive Fusion with Ancient Japanese Techniques

At our atelier in Echizen, our staff of five designers and five artisans work together, combining traditional technique and our signature Horiki technology that allows us to produce 2.7m×2.1m washi. Keeping a watchful eye on the constantly changing flows of water and the evolution of the fibers, this process is something of a dance between human expertise and the power of nature, where only steady efforts can maintain the balance, layer after layer.

日本古来の技術と融合

Washi Techniques Today

大型創作和紙

Washi on a Grand Scale

At our Kyoto atelier, we have developed a modern technological system for ingenious creation of washi. This unique system allows us to create a single sheet of washi of 11m×4.5m in size, an innovation achieved through commitment to time-honored techniques. Embedding Kozo fibers and threads or splashing droplets of water create a truly tactile surface.

大型創作和紙

Three-dimensional Washi

Our unique method leaves out the usual framework of wire and bamboo strips and uses no adhesives. By forming the paper from pulp directly into sculptural forms, we can express even delicate curvature with great versatility. Embedding Kozo fibers (paper mulberry) and threads gives the feel of a husk or shed skin while using resin as built-in material reinforces the structure. We are leaving behind the limiting conception of washi as made only on level surfaces so as to explore the full possibility of expression in three dimensions.

立体和紙

Techniques

合わせガラス加工

LAMINATE GLASS

The laminated glass manufacturing process applies non-reflective surface to glass to reduce glare without affecting the quality of the washi itself. And because this also protects against fading and ensures that even if it breaks it will not split into fragments, it facilitates outdoor use.

アクリル/硝子貼り加工

ACRYLIC AND GLASS

Bonding washi onto acrylic or glass surfaces solves problems with tearing or warping. Our unique production method ensures that the difference in contraction rates between acrylic and washi will not cause peeling, wrinkles, or the introduction of air pockets.

タピストリー加工

TAPESTRY

Tapestry-making employs some of the simplest methods, leveraging the thin,
light transparency of high-quality washi.
Our original designs are simple and elegant, and can be made in curved shapes as well.

コーティング加工

COATING

Fire retardant and stain repellent can be
applied to the washi surface. Stain repellent treatment increases the overall durability of the surface, and can prevent color fading and protect against water damage as well, so is ideal for washi intended for outdoor events.
It also serves as an antibacterial, so it is sometimes used in hospital settings.