One of my pattern obsessions is for the intricate, colourful, extremely beautiful Japanese decorative papers known as Chiyogami (Yuzen) and Katazome-chi. They’re used for bookbinding, covering boxes and containers, and a host of other decorative uses. Because they’re made from kozo (mulberry) fibres, these papers are very soft and strong – almost like fabric – which makes them incredibly versatile. I’ll be writing a longer feature about their fascinating history and how they’re made very shortly.
This gorgeous dress from the Gucci SS13 collections caught my eye recently, and reminded me of one of my favourite Chiyogami designs (above right), based on chrysanthemums – the spidery sort with long, thin, curved petals. The various motifs used for Chiyogami designs all have their own symbolism, and chrysanthemums represent fidelity, optimism, joy and long life.
I have an ever growing collection of Japanese and other decorative papers collected on my travels, including the design above. I buy them with the intention of using them for all sorts of creative projects, but when it comes to it I struggle to bring myself to cut them up – they’re just too lovely.
In the UK you can find a good selection of Chiyogami and Katazome-chi papers at Shepherds; they’re based in London SW1 but also have an online shop. For international stockists visit the Japanese Paper Place who are in Toronto Canada but who supply resellers worldwide. The online catalogue on their website is an absolute jewel-box of colour, pattern, and beauty – happy browsing!
Images: Gucci; Japanese Paper Place
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