dōsa; alum and glue sizing for washi
A traditional sizing solution made from alum and glue, applied to Japanese paper (washi) to prevent ink bleeding. Used in calligraphy, painting, and conservation.
See also: 和紙
After applying dōsa to the washi, I write with ink.
In Japanese painting, dōsa is used to prevent bleeding.
Washi is the Japanese paper that dōsa is applied to.
A general term for anti-bleeding agents; dōsa is a specific traditional sizing.
Katakana spelling is also used, especially in art contexts.
Rare kanji form; 礬 means alum, 水 means water.
Rare kanji form; 砂 means sand.
Rare kanji form; 陶 means pottery.
The origin of どうさ is uncertain. The spelling 礬水, literally “alum water,” reflects the alum solution used with glue to size paper.