Kyō-sensu. Photo: Kuwajima Kaoru

Holes are opened in the layered paper for inserting the ribs. The core paper is separated into two layers using a bamboo spatula at each folding to make an opening for the insertion of the ribs. Once the openings in correspondence to the number of ribs required are made, clappers are used to adjust the shape and a large blade is then used to cut the fan down to the right size.