Washi (和紙) is a style of paper that was first made in Japan. The word “washi” comes from wa ‘Japanese’ and shi ‘paper’. The Japanese classify many things like life style, food or paper in two main categories: those originating in Japan (wa) and those from the Western hemisphere (yo). Thus, washi basically means all papers made in Japan, regardless of being hand-made or machine-made although it is typically used to refer to hand-made paper.

Chiyogami, Katazome, Urushi, Tsumugi, Satogami – all these are names for Japanese papers.

A another common stationery item is Washi Tape that has really taken off and I am now seeing everywhere. Washi Tape works well for layering effects and are great for papercraft, gift wrapping / packaging,  scrapbooking, card making, art journaling, and paper decor.

MT  is the main supplier of proper good quality washi tape. mt is made at a dedicated factory established in 1923. MT is described on their website as “Unique Japanese masking tape made of Washi paper is strong while being extremely thin compared with those made in other countries. It has an excellent adhesiveness and it was well-received world-wide as it can be removed easily without leaving a trace.”

Many alternatives are available but I don’t think they have quite the same quality.

Check out the new MT 2016 Spring/Summer Collection here.

In the UK? Grab your MT here.

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