Coiled Bamboo Baren

The Coiled Bamboo Beta and Sumi Baren comes from Japan has a diameter of 13cm. This flat, circular pad has a coiled bamboo core, wrapped in smooth bamboo bark (takenokawa), and backed with a sturdy disc called the ategawa. The coiled bamboo is combined and cured with varnish to give an even pressure and to improve water resistance. When using the Bamboo Baren, turn the padding to allow for even ware.

The Sumi Baren (FINE) is designed for thin lines and picking up finer detail.

The Beta Baren (STRONG) is ideal for large flat areas and thicker paper.

Barens are used to hand print relief blocks by applying even pressure to the reverse of the paper. We would usually recommend lighter weight papers for hand -printing.