The Selection
Before the actual work can start: The task of selecting a document. Some items are easier to work with, others need more effort, in particular if they suffered from damages.
The Photographs
Pictures are taken of the whole document, making sure that the structure is without wrinkles and that the light is sufficient to avoid any color variations.
Cleaning
After taking the photographs, the most time consuming task follows: Cleaning them. Bug holes or fire and water damages are being removed by using software such as GIMP.
Making the Jikugi
The Jikugi 軸木 has a diameter of 18 mm. The piece made of wood (traditionally Japanese Sugi) is cut according to the measurements of the final makimono. The endings are adjusted to fit the Jikusaki 軸先 (end caps). It is important that both Jikugi and Jikusaki match a 100%, otherwise when attaching the paper differences in the structure can arise.
Making the Hyoshi
For making the Hyoshi (cover), cloth is cut according to the size of the makimono and based on traditional methods finished. Ready to use covers can be found in a variety of colors. They are simple, but well made and are not as expensive and time consuming in their making. But they due have the disadvantage that only a couple of designs are available.
Printing
After the data has been prepared, the layout of the scroll is created with Microsoft Publisher. The advantage in using this tool is, that it supports non standard paper sizes.
After the design has been finished, the scroll is printed on specifically produced Japanese paper (Washi). After drying, all papers are glued together in the correct order.
Mounting
Now the tricky part starts: The mounting. The paper will be attached to the Jikugi. It´s important to make sure that the paper is attached properly, otherwise when rolling the paper it will move from the center line.