omote

Coloured paper tatami

Paper tatami are available in a number of different weaves and in many different colours. They also have the advantage of being able to keep the same colour over an extended period

Tatami colours

A fresh tatami is usually light green and then with the passage of time and sunshine the mat will change to a more barley colour.

Fine Vs course weave

The vast majority of mats sold in Japan have the wider more open weave of the left hand sample with the fine weave style of mat shown on the right hand side. The fine weave is more often used when there is no border.

 

Paper Vs woven grass

The photo shows a paper omote on the left against a grass omote. paper can be made in a huge variety of colours but it does not have the fragrance associated with natural Igusa grass