Nugui-gami

Nugui-gami. Imported from Japan.

Nugui-gami (拭紙) literally translates to "wiping paper." It is a specialized, high-quality Japanese paper used specifically for the cleaning and maintenance of Japanese swords.

What is it made of?
It is typically a type of Washi (traditional Japanese paper) made from the fibers of the paper mulberry tree (kozo).

The Texture: Before it is used, the paper is often "kneaded" or massaged by hand to break down the fibers. This makes it incredibly soft—almost like a fine cloth—so it won't scratch the mirror-polished surface of the blade.

Absorbency: It is designed to be highly absorbent to pull old oil and acidic fingerprints off the steel without leaving lint behind.

How is it used?
Nugui-gami is used at two different stages of the cleaning process:

Removing old oil: You use a fresh sheet to wipe away the old, dust-collecting protective oil (Choji oil) before applying new powder.

Removing Uchiko: After you tap the Uchiko powder onto the blade, you use a clean piece of nugui-gami to wipe the powder away, which lifts the last of the grime and gives the steel a microscopic polish.

Professional "Wiping" Technique
There is a specific etiquette for using this paper to ensure you don't damage the blade (or yourself):

Crumple it first: Even "soft" paper can have stiff fibers. Collectors usually crumple and rub the paper against itself repeatedly until it feels like soft flannel.

One-way strokes: Always wipe from the Habaki (the collar at the handle) toward the Kissaki (the tip).

Never "scrub": Never go back and forth. If you miss a spot, lift the paper and start again from the base. Scrubbing can trap a piece of grit and drag it across the polish, creating a permanent scratch.