Washi Arts

Washi Grading System

Japanese paper is known around the world for its strength, beauty and versatility. But like all things, not all Japanese paper is created equal! 
This classification list will help you understand how Washi Arts and The Japanese Paper Place grade the washi paper we carry.

Grade A Washi
Exceptional papers; the best available. Made by master craftspeople with traditional, domestically grown Japanese fibres.
Fibre Content: 100% traditional domestically grown Japanese fibre – kozo, gampi or mitsumata. Natural tororo-aoi used as formation aid.
Production Method: Handmade (HM) or machine-made (MM) Undyed or dyed using natural plants or minerals.
Cooking Agent: Soda ash or lime

Grade B Washi
Good papers made with fibres imported from outside Japan.  Often a mix of traditional fibres and sulphite (wood pulp) or other synthetic materials.
Fibre Content: 50% to 100% traditional imported fibres
Production Method: Handmade (HM) or machine-made (MM).  Undyed or dyed with synthetic materials
Cooking Agent: Caustic soda

Grade C Washi
Often referred to as “Student Grade” papers.  Still reliable performers, economical.
Fibre Content: 20% to 50% traditional imported fibres
Production Method: Handmade (HM) or machine-made (MM)
Cooking Agent: Caustic soda. May use bleach

Grade D Washi
Cheapest papers available.  Suitable for proofing, working out ideas.  Not recommended for professional work.
Fibre Content: Less than 20% traditional imported fibres
Production Method: Handmade (HM) or machine-made (MM)
Cooking Agent: caustic soda and/or bleach

Watch how washi is made to understand content, production method and cooking agent. Video courtesty of Centre Culturel Franco-Japonais de Toulouse.