What is Hanji?

Hanji is a traditional paper made from mulberry tree pulp.  “Han” refers to the Korean people and “Ji” means paper. Natural dyes are used to produce the bright and varied colors of Hanji.

Chip board is used to create the basic structure for each craft item (for illustrative purposes, we will describe the construction of a box).  The individual panels of the box are cut out and glued together.  The top and bottom portions of the box are separated. This basic structure is then covered with a liner paper, both inside and out.  The base layer of Hanji is applied over the liner paper as a background field color.  Carefully considering color and composition, decorative designs are cut out from additional pieces of Hanji and glued down in layers on top of the field color.  A thin layer of diluted glue is applied to all sides.  After the glue ahas dried thoroughly, this process is repeated for a total of three coats.  A final coat of poly-urethane is applied to protect the piece from moisture and preserve it for prolonged use.

Symbolizing the five forces of yin and yang, there are typically five Hanji colors: Red, Blue,Orange, Black and White.  Typical Hanji objects are household items such as sewing boxes, tea tables, jewelry boxes, armoires, lap desks, storage cabinets, and bookcases.  Unlike traditional wood furniture, Hanjicrafts are eye catching and attractive; the construction also makes it sturdy yet lightweight.

As artifacts of daily life or purely decorative arts, Hanjicraft helps define Korean culture. Hanjicrafts are a good way to share our culture and pass down our Korean heritage to future generations.

Video courtesy of Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, produced for the 2025 exhibit.