tegai

Tegai refers to a traditional Japanese papermaking technique, known for producing strong and durable washi paper. The process is characterized by the use of long, flexible kozo (mulberry) fibers, which are carefully arranged and interlocked during the sheet-forming stage. Unlike some other papermaking methods where fibers are more randomly dispersed, in tegai, the papermaker often uses a special "tamegami" or "nagashi-zuki" technique to deliberately layer and orient the fibers. This deliberate arrangement is crucial to the paper's exceptional strength and its ability to withstand repeated use, such as in calligraphy and printing. The resulting paper is known for its subtle texture, excellent ink absorption, and longevity. Tegai paper has been historically used for a wide range of applications, including documents, art, and architectural elements. The painstaking nature of the tegai method contributes to the high quality and value of the finished product, making it a significant part of Japan's cultural heritage in papermaking.