Ink stick making and calligraphy.

Yet another new experience - ink stick making and calligraphy using Japanese characters.

On arrival we sat with a piece of paper, ink and a brush. Each person's name was written on their paper in Japanese characters. We then had to practice copying it.

We were given a wooden box that would eventually contain our own ink stick. Next we had to write our name on the top of the box.

Each person went forward in turn and shaped their own ink stick in their fist. This was then placed in their box with instructions to not open it for three months until it has dried, shrunk and is hard. Opening before this will cause it to crack.Read more