Introduction to the Art of Suminagashi with Katerina Momitsa

Suminagashi, meaning “floating ink”, is a traditional Japanese paper decoration technique in which ink is floated on the surface of water and then transferred onto paper.

Using brushes, ink and water, successive rings and organic patterns are created, shaped by subtle movements, air and the natural motion of the water. Each impression is unique and cannot be reproduced in exactly the same way.

In this introductory workshop, participants will discover the fundamental principles of Suminagashi and learn step by step how to create and transfer their own designs onto A4 handmade and machine-made papers.

The workshop is suitable for beginners and requires no previous experience.

The Technique

Participants will be introduced to the history and fundamental principles of Suminagashi, the tools and materials used in the process, and the way ink behaves on the surface of water.

Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, they will learn how to create successive rings of ink, control the rhythm, spacing and movement of the patterns, and experiment with different ways of shaping them on the water.

Transferring the Designs onto Paper

Participants will transfer their designs onto a selection of A4 handmade and machine-made papers, observing how the surface, absorbency and structure of each paper influence the final result.

The workshop explores both the creation of Suminagashi patterns and the relationship between the technique and the different properties of paper.

Each participant will create a series of unique Suminagashi works on A4 papers, which they will take home at the end of the workshop.

All materials and equipment required for the workshop are provided by Triton & Shell and are included in the participation fee.

Participants will work with inks, brushes, water trays and a selected range of A4 handmade and machine-made papers.