Shoji papers are optimized for maximum translucency, low transparency, and thinness. Therefore, with a few exceptions, they are white or natural white and very thin (40-60 g/m²). Other properties of Shoji paper include high tear resistance even when wet, as well as dimensional stability even with strong changes in temperature and humidity.

All Shoji papers have one smooth side and one slightly rougher side. When covering a Shoji screen, the smooth side is usually glued to the frame. This is also the outside of the Shoji paper rolls.

Processing

Shoji papers are glued on with starch-based adhesive (Shoji-Nori) or cellulose paste. Both adhesives are purely natural and can be dissolved again by moistening. This is important if the paper needs to be replaced. A prerequisite for this is that the wood surfaces are not varnished or oiled; otherwise, double-sided tape should be used.

After gluing, the Shoji paper is slightly moistened. It tightens by itself as it dries.

Shoji papers can be differentiated according to the following criteria:

Composition

• Papers made from 100% natural fiber (mulberry or hemp), very high quality
• Papers made from 70-100% pulp (wood pulp), with additives of synthetic fibers (viscose, polyester), very inexpensive
• Papers made from 50-60% pulp, with a high proportion of synthetic fibers, very tear-resistant
• Papers made from 80-100% synthetic fiber, very tear-resistant, very low paper thickness possible

Formats

• 25-28 cm width, roll length approx. 20 m. 25 cm wide is the hanshi format, 28 cm the minohan format. The paper width corresponds to the vertical bar spacing plus twice the bar width. The paper is glued in strips from bottom to top so that the overlap lies on a bar.
• 69 cm width, roll length 7.20 m. For narrow Shoji doors
• 93-95 cm width, roll lengths depending on the type: 3.60 m, 7.20 m, 10 m, 15 m, 30 m, 50 m, 60 m. This is the Ichimaibari format. Ichimaibari translates as: “cover with one sheet”. The width is based on the standard format of the Japanese sliding door, which is usually about 90 cm wide.

Structures

• muji means “without pattern”. These papers have a very fine structure.
• unryu means “cloud dragon”. These papers have a more or less pronounced fiber structure.

Patterns

Some Shoji papers have patterns that appear dark in backlight. These patterns are basically watermarks: the paper is thicker here. Typical are traditional Japanese ornaments, such as pine branches, bamboo or maple leaves.