Shoji Paper Hanger
しょうじはりしょく
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Occupation skilled in the traditional technique of cutting shoji paper to size and pasting it onto wooden frames with paste.
Description
Shoji paper hangers are craftsmen who remove old shoji paper, prepare the wooden frames, and cut and paste new shoji paper precisely to dimensions. The work process is finely divided into dimension measurement, paper cutting, paste mixing and application, paper attachment, wrinkle removal using brushes or spatulas, and finishing after drying. There is demand across various sites such as housing renovations, new Japanese-style rooms, and traditional house regenerations, requiring the inheritance of traditional techniques. Delicate handwork and material understanding are crucial, with work environments including indoors and sometimes outdoor sites.
Future Outlook
Although skill inheritance is an issue in the aging traditional craft field, steady demand is expected due to increasing housing renovation needs and traditional house regenerations.
Personality Traits
Dexterous hands and skilled in fine work / High concentration / Meticulous
Work Style
Freelance / Joinery-related / Sole proprietor / Workshop employment
Career Path
Apprentice craftsman → Experienced shoji paper hanger → Workshop manager → Independent sole proprietor → Traditional craft technician
Required Skills
Adhesive mixing / Dimension measurement and inspection techniques / Shoji paper pasting techniques
Recommended Skills
Humidity management / Traditional joinery installation / Washi knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because uneven paper pasting or misalignment is not permitted. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it requires stamina due to long hours of standing work and frequent semi-crouched postures. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Basic calculations are needed for dimension measurement, but advanced mathematical analysis is unnecessary. |
Related Qualifications
- Grade 1 Joinery Fabricator Certified Technician
- Grade 2 Joinery Fabricator Certified Technician
Aliases
- Fusuma and shoji paper hanger
- Shoji craftsman
- Shoji paper hanger
Related Jobs
- Fusuma Paper Hanger
- Japanese room joiner
- Joiner
- Woodworker