A Detailed Explanation of How to Create Custom Hanging Scrolls

　Table of Contents

• 1. What is a Hanging Scroll?
• 2. Structure and Materials of Hanging Scrolls
• 3. The Making Process of Hanging Scrolls
• 6. Experience Making Your Own Hanging Scroll
• 7. Creating Hanging Scrolls with OEM Orders

Introduction

cultural significance. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of hanging scrolls, including their basic definition, structure and materials, making process, as well as information on how to experience creating your own custom hanging scroll or place OEM orders.

This article will explain in detail the structure of hanging scrolls, the materials needed for their creation, and the making process, in an easy-to-understand manner for beginners. Additionally, for those interested in making their own hanging scrolls, we will introduce places where you can experience the creation process and stores where you can place OEM orders for custom hanging scrolls.

We hope this article will help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of hanging scrolls, which symbolize Japanese aesthetics and culture. Let's embark on a journey into the world of hanging scrolls.

*Please note that the images are for illustrative purposes only.

1. What is a Hanging Scroll? 

A hanging scroll is a traditional Japanese interior decoration that features paintings or calligraphy on paper or silk, mounted for display. Hanging scrolls are typically hung in an alcove called a tokonoma, and they are considered important artworks that express Japanese aesthetics and culture.​​

The origin of hanging scrolls can be traced back to China, and they were introduced to Japan along with Buddhism. In Japan, the use of hanging scrolls became widespread during the Muromachi period, particularly with the development of the tea ceremony. Hanging scrolls are used to express the changing seasons, Buddhist teachings, individual artworks, and to add beauty and elegance to interior spaces.

There are various types of hanging scrolls, including Buddhist paintings, calligraphy, and tea ceremony scrolls. Some scrolls are changed seasonally, while others are used for specific events or festivals, reflecting a wide range of purposes.

Due to their beauty and profound cultural significance, hanging scrolls continue to be loved by many people today. Hanging scrolls, which reflect traditional Japanese aesthetics, are highly valued by art enthusiasts both in Japan and around the world.

2. Structure and Materials of Hanging Scrolls 

A hanging scroll is a traditional Japanese decorative item designed for displaying paintings or calligraphy mounted on fabric or paper. The structure of a hanging scroll consists of the following parts:

■ Main Paper (Honshi)
The main paper is the central part of the hanging scroll, featuring the painting or calligraphy. This is the most important part of the scroll, often showcasing Chinese poetry, haiku, or proverbs written in ink for calligraphy pieces. High-quality washi paper or silk is commonly used for the main paper, ensuring the longevity and beauty of the artwork.


■ Heaven and Earth (Ten and Chi)
Heaven and Earth are the fabric or paper sections attached above and below the main paper to protect and enhance the appearance of the piece. The top part is called "Ten," and the bottom part is called "Chi." The colors and patterns of these sections are chosen to harmonize with the main paper, playing a crucial role in the overall aesthetic balance of the scroll.


■ Border (Chumawashi)
The border surrounds the main paper on all sides and serves a decorative purpose, highlighting the artwork. The colors and patterns of the border are selected to match the theme and atmosphere of the piece, contributing to the overall aesthetic harmony of the scroll.


■ Wind Bands (Futai)
Wind bands are narrow fabric strips hanging down from the top of the scroll. Originally used to protect the main paper from the wind, they now serve an important decorative role. The selection of colors and patterns for the wind bands adds movement and accents to the design of the scroll.


■ Ichimonji
Ichimonji is a narrow strip of fabric located above and below the main paper, serving a decorative function. Often adorned with luxurious embellishments, it enhances the prestige of the entire scroll. The materials and colors of the ichimonji are carefully chosen to match the theme or scene depicted in the scroll.​。

■ Roller Ends (Jikusaki)
Roller ends are the wooden or bamboo sections at the bottom of the scroll, designed to facilitate rolling. They play an essential role in the storage of the scroll and also serve as a decorative element. Traditional roller ends may feature expensive materials such as ivory or lacquer.​​

3. The Making Process of Hanging Scrolls 

 Making a hanging scroll with BesPes 

We produce completely custom-made, original hanging scrolls.

• I want a hanging scroll, but I don't know what kind of design is best.
  
• I want to make a hanging scroll without deciding on the design etc.
• I want to create a hanging scroll that matches the room.

If you have such a request, please contact us. It is possible to create a hanging scroll according to your request, or we can create an original design according to your image.

We work with vendors who can produce traditional hanging scrolls, and we are able to create original designs from the production of the work to the selection of the hanging scroll. Please see below for details.

4. Hanging Scroll Making Experience 

■ Scrothing Picture (Sugamo, Toshima, Tokyo)

crothing Picture, located in Sugamo, Toshima, Tokyo, offers a unique custom hanging scroll-making experience. This service allows customers to create their own original hanging scrolls using their own images or data. Customers can provide their favorite images or data in advance, which are then adjusted for the hanging scroll and printed on special washi paper. By selecting the colors and patterns of the materials and creating a custom digital seal, customers can complete their very own original hanging scroll.​

The hanging scroll-making experience is easy and enjoyable for beginners, allowing anyone to create a special piece by hand. Additional options such as photography and kimono rental are available to enhance the experience. If you are interested, we highly recommend giving it a try.​

・Source / Official Website：https://new-function.com/collaboration/scrothing-picture/

■ Kyoto Shunju Hyougushi Workshop

At Kyoto Shunju Hyougushi Workshop, visitors can enjoy a tour and hands-on experience led by master craftsmen. Hyougushi are artisans who create hanging scrolls, fusuma (sliding doors), and shoji (paper screens), showcasing their high level of skill up close. In this experience, participants can create part of a hanging scroll while immersing themselves in the depth of traditional techniques.

This valuable experience allows you to learn directly from professional craftsmen and create traditional crafts with your own hands.

・出展／公式HP：https://kyotoshunju.co.jp/?p=190

5. OEM Orders for Hanging Scrolls 

■ Taniguchi Shoyodo
Taniguchi Shoyodo, a Kyoto-based washi products manufacturer, offers custom hanging scroll production services. The company uses traditional washi and embossed paper to create original designs for hanging scrolls. High-precision offset printing and inkjet printing are used, followed by authentic machine-mounting processing by domestic mounting manufacturers. This approach ensures high quality, low cost, and quick delivery.

・Source / Official Website：https://www.taniguchi.co.jp/direct-order/kakeziku.html


■ HATTORI
HATTORI specializes not only in traditional hanging scrolls but also in custom hanging scrolls that can be used as tapestries. They produce hanging scrolls and tapestries using polyester materials and inkjet printing, catering to various needs such as character goods. With a wide range of options for fabrics and ichimonji (decorative strips), customers can work with skilled craftsmen to create their desired products.

・Source / Official Website：https://hattoribana.co.jp/sales/item/kakejiku/

■ Scrothing Picture (Sugamo, Toshima, Tokyo)
Scrothing Picture, located in Toshima, Tokyo, offers a service where customers can create custom hanging scrolls using their own images or data. They offer plans ranging from 90 to 180 minutes, including options for photography, kimono rental, dressing, and hair and makeup. Details can be found on their official website.

・Source / Official Website：https://new-function.com/collaboration/scrothing-picture/

 Conclusion 

n this article, we provided a comprehensive overview of hanging scrolls, including basic knowledge, their structure, the making process, and details on experiencing the creation of custom hanging scrolls and placing OEM orders. Hanging scrolls are significant artworks that symbolize Japanese aesthetics and culture, cherished for their beauty and deep cultural significance.

We hope that traditional artworks like hanging scrolls will continue to be loved by many people and that their beauty and cultural heritage will be preserved for future generations.