Description
Tōso dolls (tōso ningyō) are made of a modeling compound called tōso (a mixture of paulownia sawdust and paste) attached to a core of solid paulownia. Tōso can be freely fashioned while soft to produce all manner of forms. The molded forms are thoroughly dried before use to ensure that they won’t warp.
Process
- STEP 1
The head, torso, and limbs are shaped from tōso and left to dry.
- STEP 2
Washi paper is applied to the head and legs and then coated with gofun (a white paint of pulverized shells). The surface is sanded, and the hair and face are painted.
- STEP 3
Grooves are cut into the body to align with the seams of the outfit, and the edges of the fabric are tucked into the grooves.
- STEP 4
The head and legs are attached to the body, and the doll is complete.
