Nao Te-Suki Washi is the only studio in Japan that grows its own Kaji trees, the raw material for washi, on its own farm. The company spares no time or effort in each of the many processes involved in making washi, and continues to do so with great care. The fibers of the Kajinoki tree are long and intertwine well with each other, resulting in washi that is fine-textured, strong, and beautifully transmits light, even when made thinly.

Sustainability is a new concept that is often talked about these days, but it is actually the basis of traditional washi making. Craftsmen have been making efforts to minimize waste during the production process. When separating the fibers of soaked and softened Kaji paper, the craftsmen take great care not to break the long fibers that are unique to this paper. This is because this way, the washi can be recycled over and over again.

Thin but strong, and allowing light to pass through, Nao washi is ideal for use in lighting fixtures, wallpaper, window shades, and other applications. In the past, it was also used to make paper lanterns and other festival decorations. Nao handmade washi is always looking for new possibilities, and the craftsmen’s skills breathe new life into this washi. For example, washi made with the technique of weaving in flower and grass fibers or watermarking is perfect for interior decoration items in stores and restaurants. They are also developed into works that can be enjoyed in daily life, such as postcards made of washi paper in vivid colors. The recycled paper with many colors blended into it is made from 1,000 paper cranes that were dedicated to the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima. It is as if people’s thoughts and feelings have come to life again as Japanese paper, waiting for the day when they can be delivered to someone else. In the exhibition space, exquisitely textured wallpaper, noren, and modern paper art shine in the sunlight. The studio is also open to visitors, who can get a close-up look at the craftsmanship of the papermakers.