Shoji Paper

1. What paper is best for shoji screen.
2. Is the paper strong enough or it needs backing material.
3. What glue should I use for shoji paper.
4. How to remove old shoji paper.
5. My paper has creases. What should I do.

1. Many translucent rice paper can be used for shoji screen. Mulberry paper is traditionally used by Japanese though.
2. Rice paper is durable and no backing material is needed. Bear in mind that shoji is paper screen. Paper may be torn. Japanese replace shoji paper at least once a year, signifying a fresh new start.
3. Homemade rice paste is traditionally used for shoji paper. You may use Elmer's glue, which dries transparent and can be cleaned up by a wet towel, but thin it with water to slow the drying time.
4. Dampen glued area with water and wait few minutes before wiping it clean. Don't use wallpaper stripper which may strip the finish of shoji as well.
5. Spaying lightly clear water over shoji paper, it will be dry flat in most cases. To remove the creases beforhand, a warm iron may work. Set the iron to medium hot. Lay the rice paper to be smoothed on an iron board, moving the iron towards the edge of the paper with little pressure.

Mulberry paper roll 38"x33 ft. 1-ply, cream $85.15