Quick Overview
Traditional Japanese "ba-ren" is the pressing and rubbing tool for printing. The inner coil or "shin" consists of flat strips of bamboo twisted together into strands and then into a long cord. The cord is then coiled onto a backing disk made from either layers of washi paper, carved wood or plastic. Finally a bamboo sheath or "takenokawa" is used as a covering, with rubbing surface for printing one side and a twisted handle for the artist to hold on the other. Over time the outer sheath may need replacing due to wear and friction of printing. Our "sumi" baren is made in the traditional way with a plastic backing disk and has a finer coil. It is 130mm across and is suitable for printing the "key block" and fine details. This baren comes in a presentation box. Replacement bamboo sheaths are available to order specially.
