What is Joomchi?
Joomchi is a traditional Korean paper manipulation process that begins with mulberry paper. The colors are amazing!
For example, to create “Patchwork Joomchi” (right bottom), I started by designing the patchwork of a variety of mulberry papers (below left). I then sewed the paper together, and created three layers with cut outs exposing the lower layers. Each layer is sprayed with water. The “in process” view (right below) shows how it looks before the paper is agitated.
Then the paper is agitated for two to three hours, either by hand, or rolled between bubble wrap.
Mulberry paper
After the Joomchi dries, it is quite strong. The mulberry fibers are eight times as long as normal fibers, and they bond to create very durable paper. If the Joomchi is rubbed with your hands, it acquires a soft leather-like texture and can be used for sewing. Joomchi is extraordinarily flexible, and invites creativity and risk taking.
Patchwork Joomchi (in process)
Patchwork Joomchi
2019, private collection
I created this Joomchi paper using black and white mulberry paper (which bled into grey). After it dried, I stitched it, cut it into sections, and then re-Joomchied it. The paper will be used for an Abune coat, like the ones pictured in the Joomchi icons section.
