Traditional Japanese Crafts

Traditional Japanese crafts have found their way from centuries ago and are still practiced and enjoyed by many today. What was once something that was not accessible by many is now something that you can have delivered to your home for your enjoyment.

Some History Of Our Traditional Crafts

Chigiri-e

Chigiri-e has a two part meaning. “E” means “picture” in Japanese and “Chigiri” means to tear or shred. Washi paper, used in Chigiri-e is dated back to the eighth century. It is a long process to make by hand, but the end results allow for beautiful works of art to be created. First, kozo, bamboo, hemp, rice, or wheat plant bark is soaked in clear river water and boiled to thicken. Then it is beaten and sent through a gridiron where it is then dried into sheets. This is typically done in the sunlight for a natural, soft finish. Washi paper is still used in Japan today for many purposes including interior design, traditional arts, letter writing, books, and more!

Chirimen

Chirimen transforms mere scraps of this textured crepe fabric into adorable, hand-sewn pouches and ornaments. Chirimen means “shrunken surface”. It has been traced back to the Edo period of 1603, where the craft has been passed down from generation to generation. Chirimen crafts are inspired from the beautiful fabrics used to make kimonos. Chirimen has distinct bumpy texture fabrics that are hand sewn into modern and traditional accessories, whimsical ornaments, practical accessories and furoshikis (cloth giftware).

Etegami

Etegami is an intuitive, colorful folk art consisting of drawings paired with a few thoughtful words and watercolor. The name comes from “e” which means picture, and “tegami” which means “letter. Etegami, has been around for a long time but more recently grew in popularity when Kunio Koike (who is considered the father of Etegami) grew tired of the rigorous and lengthy process of traditional Japanese calligraphy and developed a loose free hand method called Etegami. Kunio’s motto was “heta de ii, heta ga ii”. Which means “Clumsiness is no problem. Clumsy makes it better”.

There is a reason these traditional Japanese crafts have stood the test of time. They allow you to learn a new skill, take on a new hobby (or enjoy an old one), learn about Japanese culture, and create beautiful works of art you can enjoy for yourself or gift to others. Browse our website and check out the arts and crafts we have to offer. We have easy to understand PDF and video guides. We also offer support to help you along with your projects if you get stuck or are looking for ways to improve. We look forward to bringing these beautiful traditional Japanese crafts to your life!

Why Choose U-Can Japanese Creations Arts & Crafts?