Introducing Paperweights for Calligraphy
We sell “paperweights” for use in calligraphy and penmanship. We also introduce how to choose and use them.
We offer a wide variety, including sets of two and materials such as nickel and the ever-popular ironware. From elementary school students to professional calligraphers, they can be ordered by a wide range of users.
A Tool to Steady Your Mind and Paper
A paperweight is indispensable in calligraphy—without it, you cannot write characters properly.
It holds down the paper with its weight so that it does not curl up or move around.
If the paper is not firmly secured by a paperweight, it becomes difficult to write. A paperweight is more than just a weight—it smooths the paper, creates a healthy tension, and allows you to focus on the act of writing itself.
Enjoy Variety in Shapes and Materials
The most common type is a metal paperweight with a knob in the center.
The knob makes it easy to grip and more stable. Since the main purpose of a paperweight is to hold the paper with its weight, you are free to enjoy different shapes and materials as long as they hold the paper securely. However, the weight will vary depending on the material, even if the size is the same.
Because a paperweight is always in view when writing, those who prefer simplicity may like nickel or plastic types, while those seeking a sense of presence may enjoy cast iron or Nambu ironware.
Another option is ebony paperweights, with their deep, beautiful color. Ebony is a hard, heavy wood with a unique luster.
The more you use and polish it, the more gloss it develops, gaining character over time. Its smooth, glossy texture is another charm unique to ebony.
You may choose a paperweight by shape or by material—either way, why not try using one that you truly like?
We carry everything from school-use paperweights to those ideal as gifts, so you can find one that suits your preference. Enjoy calligraphy even more with a paperweight you love.
How to Choose a Paperweight
-
Rubber: Gentle on paper, won’t damage floors if dropped. Excellent in both functionality and design.
-
Nickel: Highly resistant to corrosion and easy to use. Recommended as a first paperweight.
-
Cast Metal: Made by pouring molten metal into a mold, then cooling and solidifying.
-
Ebony: A wood often used in crafts, gaining more luster the longer it is used.
-
Metal Craftwork: Ironware made in Iwate Prefecture, recognized as a traditional craft.
-
Set of Two: Provides greater stability when writing on long or large sheets of paper.
Consider Usage Frequency and Paper Size
Nickel paperweights are the most popular for everyday use, being affordable and easy to clean.
If used only occasionally, rust may develop, so for such users, plastic-coated paperweights are recommended.
Colored variations such as pink or blue are also popular among students.
Single vs. Double Paperweights
There are single and double paperweights. Single paperweights are often long and bar-shaped, providing enough stability with just one.
Double paperweights are shorter in length compared to single ones, making them more versatile for different paper sizes.
While the choice is personal, for larger sheets, a single weight may not balance evenly. For smaller sheets such as hanshi, one is enough, but for long vertical sheets such as scrolls, using two—one at the top and one at the bottom—provides greater stability.
Some products are labeled for “hanshi” or “scroll” use, so please use that as a reference.
How to Place a Paperweight
You are basically free to place a paperweight anywhere as long as it keeps the paper stable.
Depending on the paper size, the area closest to the paperweight will be most stable.
Calligraphy usually begins at the top right, so for hanshi, placing it in the upper center is common.
If that feels cramped, placing it diagonally at the upper right prevents interference.
Also, place it slightly away so it doesn’t get in the way while writing.
Once the placement is set, lightly steady the paper with your left hand and begin writing.
