Beginner's Guide to Joomchi
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Beginner's Guide to Joomchi ~
What is Joomchi?
Joomchi (줌치) is a traditional Korean technique that transforms layers of hanji (Korean handmade paper) into a strong, textile-like material using water and friction. It has been practiced for centuries and continues to inspire contemporary artists today.
Before You Start, You’ll Need:
Traditional hanji or commercial mulberry paper
Spray bottle or brush and water
Flat work surface
Towel
Patience and a willingness to experiment
Traditional Hanji
Handmade in Korea
Longer working time
More durable
Higher investment
Commercial Mulberry Paper
Widely available
Faster transformation
Great for practice
Budget friendly
Recommended Supplies
You can purchase commercial mulberry paper and other tools here. These have been selected and used by me personally for learning and experimentation.
Joomchi Basics & Tips
Wet and layer the paper
Work the paper
Keep the paper evenly damp
Change directions often while working
Every paper behaves differently
Enjoy the process
Want to learn more in-depth and access our full tutorial?
Joomchi 101 is a mini course that includes the history and cultural background of joomchi and hanji, explores the distinct differences between traditional hanji and commercially available mulberry papers, and provides a step by step video tutorial of the process for creating a finished piece along with troubleshooting tips, recommendations and more.