Qianshan Liansi Papermaking

( chinaculture.org )

Updated: 2011-09-13

A workshop for making Lianshan paper

Liansi paper is from Qianshan county in northeastern Jiangxi province, where it's covered with vast mountains, plants and water systems.

The production of Liansi paper must follow strict procedures. It is made of the local fresh Phyllostachys pubescens, which must be felled when it grow two pairs of buds. Then the material is placed outside, subject to the elements, which helps bleach the wood naturally. Because of this, it can take up to 12 months to make Liansi paper. The water also has to come from a pure, unpolluted source.

The production of Liansi paper must follow strict procedures.

Liansi paper is white and smooth and stays white for a long time, which earned it the reputation of the 'thousand-year paper.' Usually, in ancient times, important books, rubbings from stone inscriptions, paintings, calligraphy and ancient fans were made from Liansi paper. Many paintings, calligraphy and rubbings still exist today thanks to the hardy paper.

Despite the high quality of the paper, it is made through experience passed down through generations. The long production period and strict material requirements keep the cost of this paper high.

Liansi paper is white and smooth and stays white for a long time.