cutting washi paper

[Maryann]

A friend just returned from Japan and brought me sheets of Washi paper - the real stuff, and I wonder if any one knows the secret to cutting it and getting a fine edge, as its fuzzy once cut on the fiskars.

[Inky Whiskers]

Here's something to try...when I have to cut or punch delicate or fiberous papers I sandwich the specialty paper inbetween 2 sheets of recycled copy paper (or I fold the copy paper in half with the special paper inside the fold for small pieces). This layering re-enforces the special paper allowing me to cut/punch cleanly. So far this has worked for mulberry, tissue, thin scrap book, vellum, & handmade papers with good results.

If you've done any sewing, it's just like when you put scrap paper or disolving stablizer under slippery or delicate fabris prior to sewing so the fabric lies flat & doesn't bunch up while going thru' the machine.

So give this a try with a small piece of the washi, it should help. :)