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Product Questions:
Are replacement blades available for the traditional
Japanese knives?
Yes, and we will be adding information on these products at a future update to the Mall.
Can I get unsized paper for oil based printmaking?
The paper sold in the Baren mall is specifically manufactured
for use in traditional woodblock printmaking. This requires that the paper
be sized in order to properly absorb the water based pigment and paste
combination. Sizing is thus part of the process.
It is important to note that the oil-based ink printmaking process
is flexible in its paper requirements. Japanese papers are very suitable
for oil-based inks and you will find that they are very 'ink loving', as
much as the best waterleaf printmaking papers. They are also stronger than
most Western papers and resist tearing even when dampened.
Due to the pliability of these papers, excellent results are achieved
with Japanese papers and oil based inks.
Are there ingredient specifications on pigments?
How about on other products?
Traditional Japanese manufacturers do not make available their
'recipes' for pigments and other supplies, such as paper. In traditional family businesses, ingredients and processes
pass on from generation to generation and a high quality is assured. In
'full disclosure' countries such as the US, this may seem unusual and even
illegal, however keep in mind that these cultures are simply different.
It is important to note that in Japan, poisonous
and highly hazardous materials are not permitted to be sold to the general public, just as in any other society.
Are there any additional products planned
for the future? Will the [Baren] Mall sell products for other types of printmaking?
We are planning to add a variety of woodblock related products
in the future. Keep returning often to check out new products
and new vendors.
The [Baren] Mall is dedicated to bringing woodblock supplies and is an enterprise
started by the [Baren] Forum, the international organization for woodblock printmakers.
Products in the mall will always reflect the needs of the traditional Japanese
woodblock printmaker. This obviously includes many products also used by oil-based woodcut printmaking in the European trandition, although there are
no plans at this time to include oil-based inks, brayers, linoleum, or
other supplies for oil-based ink printmaking.
To return to the Mall pages head over to the Mall
Map ...
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