Au Papier japonais offers more than 800 different kinds of Japanese papers, as well as many products made from paper such as notebooks, journals, and greeting cards. A wide range of creative opportunities is available through our course program.
What is Washi?
Handmade Japanese papers are called washi, and this word has gradually replaced the more common but inaccurate term, “rice paper” which whenever said by an unsuspecting client usually provokes a lengthy explanation! And that’s because, the remarkable qualities of washi come not from rice, but from “kozo” - the mulberry fibres that are the heart of and soul of washi. It is kozo that give washi its diversity of texture, finish and colour, its delicacy and translucence, but exceptional strength and responsiveness to impression, and its low acidity which insures a lasting image.more...See more text
“I had no idea that paper could look like that!” That’s what Lorraine Pritchard said to her husband Stan Phillips, fellow co-owner of Au Papier Japonais, in 1984, during her first encounter with washi (Japanese paper) at what was then the only Japanese paper shop in Canada. The owner of the Toronto shop, Nancy Jacobi, nominated the couple to open the first Japanese paper shop in Montreal. Lorraine and Stan liquidated their assets, including their house, rented a Ryder truck, and headed along the 401.
Au Papier Japonais occupies the same space on Fairmount where Lorraine and Stan set up shop after the first year they opened the store. Stan recounts his experience of Montreal at the time: “On our moving day, I counted 20 other Ryder trucks heading from Montreal to Toronto; we were the only ones going against the flow! In 1993, the Mile End was a ghost town.” Since then, the Mile End has come to resemble the interior of Au Papier Japonais: chock-a-block with ideas and creativity.
Cette petite boutique offre une gamme variée de papier qui seront satisfaire tous les besoins. C’est un endroit ou l’on peut y passer tout l’après-midi.
With over 800 types of Japanese paper, in addition to stock from Montreal and Thailand, Au Papier Japonais supplies a range of products from handmade cards to notebooks, along with pens and brushes. Why stick to just writing letters or painting? Take one of Au Papier Japonais’ paper arts classes, where you can learn how to create bookbinding, cards and lampshades.
You’ll find more than 800 different kinds of paper at Au Papier Japonais on rue Fairmount. They carry authentic Japanese washi paper, as well as cards, brushes, paints and ink. Not only do they carry all the supplies necessary to create beautiful pieces of art, they also offer classes to develop and hone your skills as a fine artist.