Paper mache

Paper mache literally means chewed or chopped paper. Clay, glue, starch or other agents are used to increase plasticity and strength.

Paper mache first came from Iran to Kashmir, where trays, boxes, book covers , lamps, pen cases, toys , mirror cases, flower vases, samovars are made to this day and intricately painted over.

Papier mache is used extensively in Orissa,Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to make local festival toys

Overview of Techniques involved

1. Sourcing and Transporting raw material and raw material preparation

Raw materials for pulp
Moulds
Colors for painting, tools and other process materials.

2. Preparation of pulp

Waste paper is soaked in water for several days until it disintegrates
The excess water is drained and the soaked waste paper, cloth, rice straw and copper sulphate are mixed to form a pulp

3. Making of the base mould

The pulp mixture is placed in a mould and left to dry for two to three days.

4. Assembling the mould and surface preparation

The surface is coated with a layer of glue and gypsum, rubbed smooth with a stone or baked piece of clay and pasted with layers of tissue paper.
A base color is painted on the surface.

5. Design drawing & painting

The design is added on free hand.

6 . Final finishing

The object is then sandpapered or burnished and is finally painted with several coats of lacquer.