There are a variety of exotic papers available for art projects
There are many specialty exotic papers available for artists to use. Some of these papers are only produced in certain parts of the world, such as Japan or the Himalayas. Others are painstakingly manufactured by using the same traditional methods for centuries. All are beautiful in their own ways. These specialty exotic papers provide artists with the means to create many original and creative art projects.
Japanese Washi Paper
In Japan, washi paper has been produced in the same traditional way for centuries. It is handmade by farmers in the winter after the summer crops are finished, and is made from mulberry, wheat, rice or hemp. Washi paper is used for many art projects, including origami and the making of paper fans, parasols and boxes. This type of exotic paper production is now protected by the Japanese government.
Marbled Paper
The art of marbling paper began in 12th century Japan, where it was called suminagashi. Black and indigo inks were blown across water, then picked up on paper, creating a marbled design. Later, in the 15th century, further paper marbling techniques were developed in Persia. Oil was mixed with pigments so they would float on the water. This produced a much greater range of colors and it gave the artisan fairly good control over the medium. Combs were drawn through the floating paint, making a variety of patterns. This spread to Europe by the 17th century, where the art was perfected and refined. The art of paper marbling continues to flourish in Italy. Marbled paper is much sought after by artists because of its beautiful patterns. In particular, it is used by book artists. No two pieces of marbled paper are ever the same.
Vellum
Vellum is a translucent, nearly transparent paper. It is often used in card making, collage, scrapbooking, calligraphy and other paper art projects. Placing written text, designs or pictures behind vellum can create a dream-like effect. It also softens colors when they are layered behind it and it takes well to ink, making it an excellent choice for calligraphy projects. Centuries ago, vellum was made from very thin animal skins. Now, the best vellum is produced from acid-free cotton.
Silk Paper
Silk paper is soft to the touch yet very strong and resilient. First made in China in the second century B.C., silk paper is a beautiful paper for art projects. This paper is often used in paper embroidery and quilting, book making and other paper arts. Sometimes tiny flowers are trapped within the fibers of the paper, making exquisite designs. Silk paper also comes in a wide array of soft colors.
Nepalese Lokta Paper
Lokta paper is a traditional Nepalese paper that is made from the bark of the lokta tree. This particular tree grows at an altitude of 6,500 to 9,500 feet above sea level, in the Himalaya Mountains. The plant is a renewable resource, as it takes a maximum of three years to grow to maturity. Lokta paper is strong and durable. It is particularly valued by artists for art projects because each piece is unique and it is not damaged when submerged in water. It can therefore survive many applications of paint and other wet media.
