Paper Machie:-
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.