How to Fix Holes in a Paper Screen

Shoji are traditional Asian screens fitted with a single sheet of rice paper. A wooden grid system is often employed over the paper sheet, which gives the illusion they’re individually installed. The paper is delicate and prone to tears and holes. Fix the small hole without dismantling the entire paper screen with traditional rice paste, which dries clear and provides a strong repair without staining the surrounding wood.

Rice paste powder
Kitchen sponge
Pencil
Utility knife
Rice paper
Small paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Mix the rice paste powder according to the package directions in a plastic bowl. The powder is available at craft stores.
- 2
  Lay the screen so its back side is facing upwards. Dampen a kitchen sponge with plain water and run it along the edges of the hole. This loosens the original rice glue used to the hold the paper in place. Allow the water to penetrate the paper and glue for five minutes before continuing.
- 3
  Draw a square around the damaged area with a pencil. Cut out the damaged square with a utility knife. Set the removed square onto a piece of rice paper. Cut out a repair square for the screen that is approximately 2 to 3 inches larger than the removed square.
- 4
  Cover the edges of the screen’s hole with a thin layer of the rice paste. Center the repair square over the hole and apply a thin layer of the rice paste to the edges with a small paintbrush, paying attention the paste covers the square and surrounding screen.
- 5
  Allow the rice paper to dry for at least three to four hours before moving or rehanging the screen.

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