How to Use a Japanese Fan Holder

Fans are a traditional part of Japanese culture and include the flat, round uchiwa or the pleated sensu. Japanese fans feature a broad range of ornamentation including watercolor painting, calligraphy and silk printing, and may be used as a decoration within the home. However, fans are made from delicate materials such as silk and paper, and require a holder or stand for display. The type of stand needed depends on the shape of the fan. An uchiwa requires a stand with two sides to hold the fan upright, while a sensu will be held open from behind by two unobtrusive hooks or notches.

Japanese fan, either uchiwa or sensu
Fan holder
Measuring tape

Instructions

- 1
  Select an area in your room with a flat level surface to display your fan. Use a measuring tape to ensure that the full size of the fan and the stand will fit within your display area.
- 2
  Position the fan holder on a flat, level surface. Some sensu holders are hinged and must be opened. These type of holders resemble two L shaped brackets.
- 3
  Place the fan into the holder. A sensu goes in with the pointed end down and the hooks of the holder holding the outermost ribs, while the uchiwa is simply rested in the frame of the holder with the handle protruding.
- 4
  Step away from the fan and holder and look at it from several angles in your room. Move the fan and holder to maximize the number of vantage points you may see it from.

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