Paper or papier mache means ‘chewed paper’ in french. Despite having a name of french origin, the eye-catching craft of paper mache didn’t make its way to France until around the 17th century.
It is believed that the craft of paper mache originated in China, the first country to make paper. The technique dates back to as far as 200 BC and it made it got popular in European countries only around the 17th century. The paper mache products that we see today include vases, boxes, coasters and other decorative/utility objects. However, this wonderful paper mache art is also used in making big decorative items like carnival floats. In the past, there have been instances where this technique was used in combination with other materials to craft things like canoes and fuel tanks.
History of Paper Mache Craft
From China, the craft of paper mache paved its way towards Persia and Japan where it was widely used to make masks and other festive themed goodies. Once it came to Europe, French were the first people to experiment with this craft and soon, European markets were swamped with paper mache products. After this, England started practising this craft.
Talking about paper mache crafts in India, the art form was introduced around the 14th century by the Persian Mystic Mir Syed Ali Hamdani. He came here to visit the beautiful valley of Kashmir and brought along some highly skilled craftsmen. The Persian method of paper mache was combined with largely similar art forms from Central Asia which gave birth to a unique branch of paper mache. In all these years, Kashmiri artisans have been developing and adding various flavours to the craft, thus, making their craft of ‘Kashmiri Paper Mache’ being celebrated across the globe.
Paper Mache Trivia
- In ancient China, paper mache was often used to make warrior helmets.
- In ancient Egypt, plaster and linen were used to make death masks.
- 18th century Europeans used paper mache as an inexpensive option of ornamental plaster.
- Today, paper mache has been mostly replaced with plastic materials to make decorative objects. However, as concerned people, we should always opt for sustainable options wherever possible.
Process
Kashmiri paper mache essentially comprises of two major steps, namely Sakhtsazi and Naqashi. While sakhtsazi is all about laying a foundation of the paper mache object with paper pulp, naqashi involves painting and decorating the final product.
The pulp of paper (mostly scrap) is soaked in water for three to four days. Once the paper absorbs the water, the mixture is put into the stone mortar to hand grind the paper till it’s uniform- neither too thick nor runny. The pulp is sundried for a while and then combined with atji, a type of rice glue. It should be noted here that the traditional Kashmiri paper mache doesn’t use the common glue that is used by us.
Now, a mould is prepared (generally of wood or clay) around which our craftsmen can shape the paper pulp using the rice glue. After the mixture gets semi-dried, the mould is carefully removed and the cast is shaped, followed by smoothening. Smoothening consists of putting a layer of lacquer to make the outside body smooth. After these procedures are done, a thin layer of butter paper is applied to the outside to prevent cracks in the paint.
During naqashi, after getting done with the base coat, our artists hand-paints fine designs. The most common motifs are that of flowers, chinar, five-pointed leaves, etc. Since all designs are handpainted, it ensures that no two paper mache products are exactly the same. Traditional artists still opt for natural colours derived from vegetables, flowers or minerals.
Care of Paper Mache Items
Since paper mache products are made up entirely of paper, they need a little extra care during their cleaning. First and foremost, they need to be kept away from the sunlight to avoid colour bleeding. These products should be dusted with a dry cloth and not rubbed off, otherwise, the paint will get smudged. The use of water for paper mache trays and paper mache coasters is not recommended at it can cause cloudiness. Still, if your tray requires more cleaning then it should be wiped with a soft cotton cloth dipped in soapy water. After this, polishing with a layer of microcrystalline wax is recommended to achiever a lustrous finish. To get rid of stains, make a solution with a few drops of lemon in water and wipe with a soft close. Never rinse or immerse your paper mache products in water or any other liquid.
Buy Paper Mache Online at Craft Maestros
The beautiful art of paper mache is undoubtedly the pride of Kashmir. From a paper mache box to a paper mache lamp, each and every item is made with immense love and is a result of years of practice and patience. It won’t be an overstatement if we say that our master artisans have dedicated their lives to keep this centuries-old craft alive. The best part about paper mache products is that along with art, they promote sustainability and conscious luxury. Since all the products are made using waste paper and glue, the process hardly causes any kind of pollution and is known to give a new life to waste paper- a life that is cherished and adored by the connoisseurs of art and craft, a life that sits beautifully around favourite corners of your humble abode. You can buy paper mache products online with us at Craft Maestros. All our products come from the homes of our nationally awarded master craftsmen and boast of finest quality and craftsmanship.
Decorative Paper Mache Products at Craft Maestros
We all love to decorate our homes with all sorts of big and small decorative pieces we can get our hands on. At Craft Maestros, we have an exclusive artisanal range of paper mache products coming straight from the homes of our nationally recognised master artisans. Our paper mache table lamps are perfect for illuminating up the corners of your house or gracing your side table. Our paper mache coasters and trays would ensure that your guests get an unforgettable dining experience and you get to pat your back for being the best host. These little elements really elevate the aesthetics and the feel of having a meal or just some quick snacks and coffee. Our paper mache boxes are perfect add-ons for your dressing tables. Not only these will enhance the beauty of your dresser but will gracefully store your trinkets as well.
