Choosing the right paper is one of the most important decisions in printmaking. Paper affects ink transfer, detail clarity, embossing, durability, and the overall feel of a print.
Two major traditions dominate relief and fine art printing: Japanese paper (washi) and European paper (cotton rag paper). Each has distinct characteristics rooted in material, history, and technique.
Understanding the differences between Japanese and European paper helps you choose the best surface for your carving and printing style.
What Is Japanese Paper (Washi)?
Japanese paper, or washi, is traditionally made from long plant fibers such as Kozo (mulberry), Mitsumata and Gampi. These fibers are longer and stronger than typical Western pulp fibers. The fibers make the papers quite unique and the fiber is visible in the paper surface structure.
Characteristics of Japanese Paper: tend to be thin but extremely strong, flexible and responsive with a smooth surface, very lightweight (often 30–90 gsm) and excellent for hand burnishing.
Washi was historically used in mokuhanga (Japanese woodblock printing), where water-based pigments and hand pressure are central to the process.
What Is European Paper?
European printmaking paper is typically made from cotton rag, linen fibers and wood pulp blends (in lower grades). Fine art European papers (like Rives BFK, Somerset, or Arches) are often 100% cotton.
Characteristics of European Paper: heavier weight (typically 180–300 gsm), softer, more cushioned surface with strong absorbency. They accepts embossing well and are ideal for press printing
European papers developed alongside oil-based intaglio and relief printing traditions, where pressure from presses plays a larger role.
Ink Interaction
With Water-Based Ink, Japanese paper excels with water-based pigments because it absorbs moisture evenly, the fibers bond well with pigment and the thin structure allows excellent transfer with hand pressure. European cotton paper can also work, but may require dampening for best results and is hard to produce a good hand burnishing result.
With Oil-Based Ink European cotton paper performs exceptionally well with oil-based relief inks. They holds rich blacks, accepts heavier ink loads and support deep embossing. Japanese paper can handle oil-based ink, but thinner sheets may show more surface texture and require careful burnishing. A good trick is to place a sheet of transparency paper over the top of your Japanese paper before you start burnishing. This helps the burnishing tool glide along smoothly and protects the paper beneath.
Pressure and Printing Method
Your printing method should influence the choice of paper.
Hand Burnishing
Japanese paper is ideal for a bamboo baren, spoon burnishing and light pressure printing. Its thin structure allows detailed transfer without excessive force.
Press Printing
European cotton paper shines under the etching press, relief press and for heavy pressure applications. Its thicker body distributes pressure evenly and produces dramatic embossing.
Surface Aesthetic
Japanese paper produces clean, crisp impressions, subtle surface texture as well as a light, delicate appearance.
European paper produce heavier visual presence, a noticeable plate mark or embossing as well as rich tonal depth.
Neither is better — they simply create different visual results.
When to Choose Japanese Paper
Choose washi if you:
- Print by hand
- Use water-based ink
- Want a lighter, refined aesthetic
- Prefer minimal embossing
- Value fiber strength in thin sheets
When to Choose European Paper
Choose European cotton paper if you:
- Use oil-based ink
- Print with a press
- Want visible embossing
- Prefer a substantial, heavyweight feel
- Print large editions
Can You Mix Traditions?
Absolutely.
Many contemporary printmakers combine:
- Japanese paper with oil-based ink
- European paper with water-based pigment
- Hybrid techniques
Testing small samples is the best way to understand how paper interacts with your specific ink and pressure style.
Final Thoughts
Japanese and European papers reflect different printmaking traditions — one rooted in hand burnishing and plant fiber strength, the other in press printing and cotton rag softness.
The right paper depends on:
- Your ink type
- Your printing method
- Your desired aesthetic
- Your tactile preference
Paper isn’t just a surface — it shapes the final voice of your print.