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The traditional method doesn't need high tech equipment, machines,
or electricity. All one needs is the skill and locally available
products: stones, wood, water, and the availability of tree bark
harvesting. Also, traditional Nepali paper is stronger and longer
lasting than conventional, industrially processed Nepali paper and
as a result is commonly used for official letters and documents.
For 1,500 years, handmade paper has been made in the mountain area
of
Nepal. The raw material used is the bark of Daphne Cannabina or
Daphne Papyracea, locally known as "Lokta" which is renowned for
its exceptional durability and special texture. The oldest
available manuscripts of Hindu & Buddhist texts, Royal edicts &
legal documents are centuries old and always having recorded on
Nepali handmade paper. The bark is collected from high altitude of
2000 meters, with environmental awareness to preserve the fragile
ecology of Nepal's forests. The process involves cooking the bark
twice-consecutive washing, chopping and beating with wooden
mallets. The soft pulp is poured over a wooden frame and spread
evenly by gently shaking the floating frame in a water tank or
pond and then sun dried.
We believe in village-based self-reliance through the promotion of
traditionally inspired hand crafted products that reflects our
unique culture and heritage. Thank you for appreciating and
supporting this ancient craft. |
