Charmingly Evolving,
the Intriguing Material 'Shifu'
Shifu is a fabric woven from threads made of paper.
Before threading it into the loom, the spun yarn is rewound while being rotated to align the surface of the yarn.
This step is crucial in creating the fabric's textured surface.
When meticulously adjusted by artisans, Shifu gains a unique blend of richness and softness.
Shifu, resistant to visible stains, becomes more appealing and characterful with use, making it a truly captivating material.
Shifu is a traditional cloth woven from twisted washi (Japanese paper) threads. It's crafted in a factory located in the picturesque coastal city of Etajima, Hiroshima Prefecture. Known for its fine grid pattern, Shifu has been primarily produced for residential wallpapers. However, with the decline in the industry, there are now only two manufacturers left in Japan. Shifu has thus become a rare and valuable traditional textile.
Shifu is a material that resonates with the Japanese climate, "absorbing moisture on rainy days and releasing it on sunny days.
" It's said that if used properly, it can last over 30 years. In fact, Shifu made 50 years ago is still in use today,
retaining its original texture without any degradation. Its ability to maintain durability for a long time,
even in high humidity conditions, is due to Shifu being a 'breathable' material.