The Flame

An original lantern (flame version) designed, engineered, and crafted with a torch motif. For the flame section, I focused primarily on warm-toned Japanese papers—such as Unryu paper, Tenugucho paper, and papers dyed in the “Cho” style—and employed techniques that went beyond simply “cutting and pasting” to include tearing, sanding, translucency, bleaching, and intertwining and blending. It was crafted with a focus on “how flame-like it appears” and “how well the flickering and warmth of a flame can be expressed through the pattern,” both when lit and when unlit. Based on the principle of using only the original colors of the washi, absolutely no new coloring has been applied to the paper.
One of the highlights of this lantern is that, when lit, a mechanism at the top of the flame tube projects a butterfly onto the ceiling, as shown in the photo (since only one image was included in the post, I’ve added the butterfly image here). In addition to the butterfly, I’ve created several other patterns. By providing several different silhouette templates, we hope customers will be able to change the silhouette to suit the moment and enjoy not only the “light” but also a variety of silhouettes.
　Additionally, while the outer layer of the flame uses a thin PVC sheet that serves both as protection and a wick, the tube itself was designed to resemble a “flame.” We calculated the ideal ratio to the base, as well as the optimal diameter and length for the best balance, and finalized the design after numerous prototypes. Although the title says "(Flame Version)," we also plan to produce versions with blue flames, rainbow colors, and more. After the light is turned off, the white ring at the top glows softly thanks to the use of phosphorescent material.
As for the base, I’ve used washi paper on the bottom, sides, and the surfaces where it joins the cylinder; the base itself is assembled from several parts I crafted myself.
Additionally, some parts—such as the white circular section at the top of the base—are made entirely from scratch. This concludes the explanation of each part.
　Furthermore, my motto is to use these original creations to change—even if only slightly—the image of washi paper, which is often perceived as plain, intimidating, or something people rarely encounter in their daily lives, and to bring out new possibilities for washi paper.
With this sentiment in mind, I create practical lanterns that serve as decorative “flames” both when lit and when unlit, designed to be used in everyday life.