Makisu

A makisu is a traditional Japanese mat made of bamboo slats and cotton string. It is used mainly to prepare makizushi (rolled sushi), helping shape it into a cylinder. It is also used to shape soft foods such as omelets or to press excess liquid out of ingredients.

A makisu typically measures about 25 cm × 25 cm, though other sizes are available. There are two main types: one made with flat, thin bamboo strips and another made with small, cylindrical strips. To make cleanup easier, some chefs cover the makisu with plastic wrap before use, especially when making uramaki (sushi with rice on the outside). After use, the makisu should be cleaned thoroughly and dried completely to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.

In Korean cuisine, a similar tool called gimbal (김발) or gimbap mari (김밥말이) is used mainly to prepare gimbap (김밥). Gimbal and gimbap mari help shape gimbap into a compact roll.