Paper Machie:-
Papier Mache is another form of handicraft that has
brought J&K wide acclaim from all regions of the world. To make
Papier Mache objects, the process is very long and tedious. First the
paper is soaked in water till the time it completely dismantles. The
paper is then mashed and is mixed with an adhesive solution. The pulp is
then molded into desired shape and is dried. The outlay of the object
is now ready. Now is the time for artisans to color it and draw
intricate and brilliant designs on it. The product is now ready to hit
the market. The first look on these splendorous object itself will
compel you to make them your own. There are cheaper versions of Papier
Mache as well that are made up of cardboard. Pen boxes, table lamps,
show pieces and other decorative items are few that are made from Papier
Mache.
At first glance, all papièr mâchè objects look roughly the same, but
there is a price differential which depends on the quality of the
product. However, besides at least three different grades of papièr
mâchè, some are actually cardboard or wood! The idea, however, is not to
hoodwink the unwary, but to provide a cheaper product with the look of
papièr mâchè.
To make papièr mâchè, first paper is soaked in water till it
disintegrates. It is then pounded, mixed with an adhesive solution,
shaped over moulds, and allowed to dry and set before being printed and
varnished. Paper that has been pounded to pulp has the smoothest finish
in the final product. When the pounding has not been so thorough, the
finish is less smooth. The designs painted on objects of papièr mâchè are brightly coloured.
They vary in artistry and the choice of colours, and it is not difficult
to tell a mediocre piece from an excellent one. Gold is used on most
objects, either as the only colour, or as a highlight for certain
motifs. Besides the finish of the product, it is the quality of gold
used which determines the price. Pure gold leaf, which has an
unmistakable lustre, is far more expensive than bronze dust or gold
poster paint. Varnish, which is applied to the finished product, imparts
a high gloss and smoothness, and increases with every coat applied.
Papier Mache, today, has become highly stylized and appealing by using
real gold and silver paint and by adding intricate decorations. The
designs and decorations of the Kashmiri Papier Mache, usually in the
form of flowers and birds, have a strong Persian flavor. The paper Mache objects produced in Kashmir today vary from Christmas
ornaments to coasters and include boxes of every imaginable size and
shape. These objects are not only beautifully decorated, but are
surprisingly light and strong. Their coating of lacquer protects them
from water and gives them extra durability.
Nowadays artisans have started using cardboard instead of paper. The object is not to deceive tourists but to reduce the price of these artifacts. Papier-mache vases, bowls and other decorative items have exquisite traditional designs in vibrant colors on them. The commonly used motifs on these artifacts are images of the maple leaf, kingfishers, flowers, birds and other attractive designs.
Nowadays artisans have started using cardboard instead of paper. The object is not to deceive tourists but to reduce the price of these artifacts. Papier-mache vases, bowls and other decorative items have exquisite traditional designs in vibrant colors on them. The commonly used motifs on these artifacts are images of the maple leaf, kingfishers, flowers, birds and other attractive designs.