Tips to choosing paper

Thanks to the rapid improvement of inkjet printers, it is now possible to create work that can incorporate the unique qualities of the paper it is printed on…expressions that were not possible with photographic printing paper have now become possible. It is important to select materials that are right for each individual work and there are now many ways to enjoy the inkjet printing experience. We are proponents of creative experimentation and recommend that you try many different media before deciding on the best one to express your unique visual message. Let this introduction assist you in choosing the right AIJP (Awagami Inkjet Paper) to best convey your artistic expression.

If this is your first time printing with washi, the Kozo series is a good place to start. ‘Kozo’ (mulberry) is one of the main ingredients used in making Japanese paper, and the quality and aesthetic of the material is the most “washi-like” of all the materials. There is a wide variation of thicknesses, colors, and sizes available, so these papers may be used for a wide array of creative applications. The handmade deckle-edged ‘ Shiramine postcard series also convey a lovely and traditional Japanese washi aesthetic.

Inbe paper paper can be printed on both sides and is therefore ideal for printing books or cards.

Since it’s possible to print on both sides of Inbe papers, they are a comparatively reasonable option for those on a budget. AIJP Inbe papers are easy-to-use and are suitable for a wide range of printing types, making them an extremely reliable “workhorse” inkjet paper.

Naturally the thickness and nature of your materials will vary depending on the intended effect; however, we highly recommend the Premio series for framed works. Because of its double layering, ‘Premio’ papers are thick enough so that they do not require any additional backing. Premio papers will add a strong presence to your printed photos presented in a portfolio and are also excellent for card-making or other original printed products for sale.
The Bizan eries is handmade one sheet at a time by our master craftsman and has 4 naturally organic deckled edges. Bizan is very thick when compared to other digital papers, so it is a popular choice for professional artists who like to display their works unframed.

 

Unryu paper contains long kozo(mulberry) fibers which become visible when lit from behind. The kozo fibers have a synergistic effect, making a unique contribution to works of art printed on it.
Kozo Double Layered can be easily peeled apart after printing leaving a very thin final sheet. The printing surface is 100% kozo so although thin, it is quite strong and retains excellent transparency.
The Kozo (Thin) paper has a lovely and subtle quality which allows light to softly pass through.

Kozo (Thin) s a good choice for a simple scroll; however, to make an authentic scroll, we recommend using as thin a paper as possible and then mount the printed sheets onto the scroll. Therefore, Kozo Double Layer is an ideal choice since the sheet can be peeled apart after printing resulting in a very thin printed page.

*We recommend contacting your scroll mounting vendor before beginning your work.

 

All AIJP papers have similar levels of reproduction quality, however, Inbe (White) has a very high level of brightness which will result in superb and highly accurate reproduction quality. The ‘Premio Series’ uses 2 sheets of AIJP papers laminated together which create a double-thick bright paper which yields beautiful reproduction results.

The simplicity of black and white photography means the quality and texture of the paper is of critical importance. For such images, we recommend trying our highly-prized Kozo (Natural) or Mitsumata papers, which feature a warm natural tone. Black ink will appear deeper on these subtle ecru-colored sheets helping to highlight the emotional atmosphere of your black and white photographs.

Any paper in the series can be used to make a panel; however, there are ideal thicknesses depending on the way the panel is made. It’s best to consult with a professional panel mounting vendor before getting started.

	Color	Weight	Thickness	Size
Mitsumata		95g/m2	—	A3+/A4/Roll
Kozo (Thin)	White	70g/m2	230 ±15µm	A1/A2/A3/A4/Roll
Kozo (Thin)	Natural	70g/m2	230 ±15µm	A1/A2/A3/A4/Roll
Kozo (Thick)	White	110g/m2	230 ±15µm	A1/A2/A3/A3+/A4/Roll
Kozo (Thick)	Natural	110g/m2	230 ±15µm	A1/A2/A3/A4/Roll
Kozo Double Layered		90g/m2	180 ±15µm	Roll
Inbe (Thin)	White	70g/m2	150 ±15µm	A1/A2/A3/A4/Roll
Inbe (Thick)	White	125g/m2	230 ±15µm	A1/A2/A3/A4/Roll
Inbe (Extra Thick)	White	160g/m2	280 ±15µm	A1/A2/A3/A4
Bizan (Medium Thick)	White	200g/m2	480 ±50µm	A1/A2/A3
Bizan (Medium Thick)	Pure White	200g/m2	480 ±50µm	A1/A2/A3
Bizan (Thick)	White	300g/m2	680 ±50µm	A1/A2/A3
Bizan (Thick)	Pure White	300g/m2	680 ±50µm	A1/A2/A3
Premio Kozo	White	180g/m2	380 ±30µm	A1/A2/A3+/A4/A5/Postcard
Premio Inbe	White	180g/m2	380 ±30µm	A1/A2/A3+/A4/A5/Postcard
Premio Unryu	White	165g/m2	380 ±30µm	A1/A2/A3+/A4/A5/Postcard
Bamboo 170	White	170g/m2		A1/A2/A3+/A4/Roll
Bamboo 250	White	250g/m2		A1/A2/A3+/A4