How to choose shoji paper? Beauty ・ features ・ amount balance
When choosing shoji paper, what do you consider first?
What do you consider most when choosing shoji paper?
In this issue, we will discuss how to choose shoji paper, focusing on the balance between “appearance (beauty),” “function,” and “price.
If you value “visual beauty
Many people want to enjoy the “texture of Japanese paper” those is unique to shoji screens! I think there are many people who want to enjoy the “texture of Japanese paper” that only shoji screen can offer.
The soft translucency of handmade washi and the natural expression of its fibers are beautiful in a way that machine-made shoji paper is not.
We also recommend using shoji paper with patterns to add a touch of individuality.
For example:
- Handmade shoji paper: The flow of the fibers and the color of the fibers are unique, giving it a distinctive texture not found in machine-made paper.
- Traditional patterned shoji paper: With subtle patterns such as cherry blossoms and hemp leaves, this paper enhances the space.
High-grade machine-made shoji paper: This paper has the texture of handmade washi, but the fibers are more uniform and stronger.
If visual beauty is a priority, we recommend choosing this type of shoji paper, even if it is a little delicate.
If function is a priority
Shoji paper is generally made of Japanese paper, but recently there have been many products that have been developed to be tear-resistant, such as “reinforced shoji paper” and “resin-coated shoji paper.
These durable shoji paper products are especially popular with families with small children and pets.
For example
- Reinforced shoji paper: Fibers are reinforced to resist scratching and impact. It will not tear if a finger strikes it when opening and closing.
- Resin-processed shoji paper (1): Washi paper sandwiched between PET resin. It is more resistant to water and stains than ordinary Japanese paper. It is unlikely to be torn by daily use, so the frequency of reupholstering will be reduced. Double-sided tape is used for installation.
Resin-processed shoji paper (2): PET resin sandwiched between washi paper is more resistant to water and stains than regular washi paper. It is unlikely to be torn by daily use, so the frequency of reupholstering will be reduced. When installing, use a thicker-than-usual glue mixed with woodworking bond.
If tear resistance is important to you, these types are your choice. On the other hand, resin-processed shoji paper does not have a humidity control function, so care must be taken to avoid condensation and mold when using it in humid places.
If “price” is important to you
Some DIY shoji paper sold at home centers and on the Internet is fairly inexpensive. Because it is not a room where people can see it. or you want to replace only one torn sheet. If you want to do it inexpensively, for example, because it is not a room that will be seen by others, or because you only want to replace one torn sheet, I think it is possible to use this type of shoji paper yourself.
However, please note that such inexpensive shoji paper is quite thin and easily torn and discolored, so it is often necessary to replace it in a short period of time.
Finally
The choice of shoji paper depends on the atmosphere of the room in which it will be used and the lifestyle of the family.
Whether you prioritize beauty, functionality, or price, we encourage you to choose the right shoji screen for your home.
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