Made of thin, paper-like slices of pine, these Japanese pads not only have the unmistakable look, feel and even the smell of natural wood, but they also have a unique story about how they came to be. Over 40% of Japan's woodlands are now cultivated, requiring regular thinning to maintain their ecological health. As Japan's timber industry declines, these products put harvested wood to good use, bringing needed revenue for sustainable forestry management, while helping to preserve a disappearing traditional craft.