Artists' Books Online. Encuadernación. Diario de una encuadernación artesanal. Hiromi Paper International, Inc. History of Washi Papermaking was introduced to Japan over 1,300 years ago. The Chronicles of Japan, Nihon Shoki, written in the year 720, state that the Chinese methods of making ink and paper were introduced to Japan by the Korean Buddhist priest, Doncho, in 610. The Prince Regent Shotoku found the Chinese style paper too fragile and encouraged the use of kozo (mulberry) and hemp fibers, which were already cultivated for use in making textiles. The techniques of making paper spread throughout the country and under his patronage, the original process slowly evolved into the nagashizuki method of making paper using kozo and neri (a viscous formation aid.) These skills that have been passed down from generation to generation produced a paper that was not only functional but reflected the soul and spirit of the maker. This close relationship between papermaker and paper user resulted in washi's becoming an integral part of the Japanese culture.
Materials Used. All things paper. CaiLun.info - Artist Books Paper & Bookbinding Blog - Cai Lun - Dennis Yuen.