The art of paper was brought to Japan in 610 AD by Buddhist monks who produced it for writing sutras. By the year 800, Japan's skill in papermaking was unrivalled, and from these ancient beginnings have come papers unbelievable in their range of color, texture and design.

Washi is the Japanese word for the traditional papers made from the long inner fibres of three plants (Kozo, Mitsuma and Gampi), wa meaning Japanese and shi meaning paper. Washi maintains a variety of unique characteristics such as strength, flexibility, low acidity, absorbency and soft translucency. Washi is ideal for creating the most elegant of gifts or as a radiant addition to any craft project. Mongrel is excited to offer a great selection of these fine papers.

Oh-so-charming Sherry and John Petersik spent the afternoon with us at Mongrel, signing their NY Times Bestseller (you GO, YHL!) for fans who started lining up hours before the event. They were nice enough to sign extras that are available for purchase in-store or by mail (Hardcover, $25.95 plus tax and shipping). Give us a call at 804-342-1272 to purchase by phone.

If you are not familiar with our Frasier Fir candles by Thymes don’t miss them on your next visit to Mongrel! Essence of Siberian Fir needles, heartening cedarwood and relaxing sandalwood hearken the holiday season. The just-cut forest fresh fragrance begs to be carried beyond the holidays and into the new year. In addition to an extensive candle collection, we have added kitchen and bath products so that you can do just that.
All pieces of the collection include the savvy design packaging the line has become known for.   

Sometimes, the very best thing that comes in the mail is a card. From you.

I saw an article the other day about writing thank you notes — not emails, but notes, on paper, with an addressed envelope and a stamp. It was presented as if it was the most novel idea of this decade. I suppose, in some ways, it is. People forget that the card they’re sending is not as much about them as it is about the recipient. Sometimes, the smallest remembrance can make someone’s day.