Fun and Fascinating Japanese Arts and Crafts for All Ages
Japanese arts and crafts represent some of the most beautiful and interesting in the world. There are many different creative works you can make and enjoy which originate from Japan. Some of the most common include paper lanterns and beautiful calligraphy. The neat thing about Japanese symbols is that they are both artistic and meaningful. If you can learn how to paint a few symbols, you can create gorgeous works of art to be hung on the walls.
For example, you may want to write your name in Japanese calligraphy, or write a particular word that has meaning to you like Wealth, Luck or Happiness. You can even group your works together. Stay with odd numbered groups as those are most pleasing to the eye. Choose either a stark white background for your calligraphy or something bright like red. After painting or drawing the characters on the page, simply mat, frame and hang. Some people use paint and a brush to make the symbols, others prefer to use calligraphy pens.
Japanese felt snakes are a cute and easy craft for kids to make. You will need a length of felt in the color of your choice, a ruler, a chenille pipe cleaner, scissors, black marker, glue, clothespins and googly or wiggly eyes. Cut a thin strip of felt the same length as your ruler. Lay the chenille pipe cleaner in the center of the felt strip. Generously apply glue to the edge of the felt and fold the sides together so that the chenille pipe cleaner is stuck in between. Place clothespins down the length of the felt to help the glue dry. Glue on the eyes. Once the glue dries, remove the clothespins and you’ve got a cute wiggly snake that can be curled around pencils or cups.
There are so many traditional Japanese arts and crafts, you’re sure to find something that interests you. You can try growing bonsai trees, painting shoji screens, making handmade paper or sewing kimonos. Even some forms of martial art such as tai chi are thought of as a form of artistic expression. If you’re interested in learning more about this subject, check out a book such as Traditional Arts and Crafts of Japan by Christopher Dresser.
