Hanji making

Hanji is traditional Korean paper made primarily from the inner bark of the mulberry tree (Broussonetia kazinoki). Known for its strength, durability, and smooth texture, hanji has been an essential part of Korean culture for centuries, used in writing, painting, and crafting. The term „Hanji” literally means „Korean paper,” reflecting its deep cultural significance.

 

How to make Hanji

The production of hanji involves a meticulous and labor-intensive process. It begins with harvesting the mulberry bark, which is then steamed, boiled, and pounded into a fine pulp. This pulp is mixed with water and a natural adhesive called dak pul, made from the mucilage of the hibiscus root (Hwangchokgyu). The mixture is then spread onto a bamboo screen called a bal, where it is carefully stirred and layered to form sheets. The sheets are pressed to remove excess water, then dried, often against a large sheet, to achieve a smooth finish.  Historically, hanji was so highly regarded that it was known as „Goryeoji” during the Goryeo Dynasty, prized for its superior quality.

The production of hanji involves a meticulous and labor-intensive process. It begins with harvesting the mulberry bark, which is then steamed, boiled, and pounded into a fine pulp. This pulp is mixed with water and a natural adhesive called dak pul, made from the mucilage of the hibiscus root (Hwangchokgyu). The mixture is then spread onto a bamboo screen called a bal, where it is carefully stirred and layered to form sheets. The sheets are pressed to remove excess water, then dried, often against a large sheet, to achieve a smooth finish.  Historically, hanji was so highly regarded that it was known as „Goryeoji” during the Goryeo Dynasty, prized for its superior quality.

With master Jang Seongwoo, who is designated as an intangible cultural asset, participants will be able to have the opportunity to touch mulberry trees and make Hanji. The process involves spreading boiled mulberry tree bark to create the paper. At the end of the session, participants will receive the Hanji they made.

 

Jiseung – paper weaving

Korean paper weaving is a handicraft somewhat reminiscent of Hungarian cornhusk weaving, using hanji, paper made from the bark of the Korean mulberry tree. In the olden days, waste sheets of paper were cut into 2 cm strips, twisted into twine and woven into pots and boxes. The finished utensils were often made waterproof by varnishing.

 

Anyone can learn the Jiesung technique at the Festival of Crafts, where master Cho Eun Sil will demonstrate the ins and outs of paper weaving.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Calligraphy

The word „calligraphy” originated from Greek, „kallos” meaning beauty, „graphein” meaning writing. In Korean culture, calligraphy is not solely the practice of the handwriting technique, it also trains and disciplines the mind. While western – and other middle-eastern – calligraphers used goose and other kinds of carved feathers for centuries, the preferred tool of the Far East has always been the brush. 

At this year’s Festival of Folk Arts, you can learn about calligraphy’s technique and philosophy from Moon Changsuk calligrapher. 

 

 

Dancheong – decorative colouring on wooden buildings

The literal meaning of the word „dancheong” is „red and green”, but of course it means much more than that. This is what they call the style of painting incorporating the five primary colours, with which they decorate buildings, and which has a double protecting role. Firstly, like all kind of paint, it protects wooden houses from environmental factors, such as weather, pests, and rotting. However, the colours of this Korean paint do much more than that, because each of the colours posses a magical, protective properties, which are responsible for driving away harmful spirits, and emphasising the power of the owner over their estate.

 

There are some iconic, representative Dancheong patterns, with symbolic meanings. The lotus flower design represents purity and enlightenment, the peony symbolizes wealth and honor, and the crane signifies longevity.

 In this event, with master Kim Suyeon, participants can create ‘Dancheong Ttakji’ using paper decorated with these traditional Dancheong patterns. While Dancheong is usually found in architecture, this program adapts it for use on paper. Ttakji is a traditional game where players flick folded paper cards to flip their opponent’s card, blending cultural artistry with playful competition.