Paper machie
Paper Crafts
History
Papier mache was introduced to India in the 15th century by a Kashmiri prince. The craft flourished under Mughal patronage, spreading across the country, including Uttar Pradesh. Traditionally, women made toys and vessels using waste paper and multani mitti. Today, papier mache thrives in Uttar Pradesh, especially during festivals like Durga Puja and Dussehra, where ceremonial sculptures and toys are created.
Raw Materials and Tools
Papier mache uses waste paper, Fuller's earth, gum, bamboo sticks, thread, and mud. Tools like scissors, knives, and hammers shape and refine the mixture. Moulds are used for vessels and figurines. Bamboo armatures support larger sculptures, while a clay-paper mix forms the structure. The mixture is left to dry before painting, creating a durable and unique piece of art.
Process
The process starts with soaking waste paper until it disintegrates. The pulp is then beaten with a hammer and mixed with Fuller’s earth and glue to form a smooth dough. This dough is hand-shaped into toys or placed inside moulds for vessels. For sculptures, a bamboo armature is built, layered with paper and clay, then sculpted and left to dry. Once dry, the items are painted with bright colors, and intricate patterns are added.
Design and Color
Paper machie products feature intricate floral and geometric patterns in bright colors. Traditional designs depict mythological scenes, folk tales, and daily life. Items are painted in vivid hues with bold contrasts, making them visually striking. Cultural motifs and patterns enhance the appeal of this folk craft, ensuring its demand for decorative and ceremonial purposes, and keeping the tradition alive.
Product Range
Papier mache products include toys, dolls, idols, sculptures, and decorative items. Larger sculptures, like ceremonial horses for Durga Puja and Dussehra, are also crafted. Traditional mould-made toys and vessels continue to be made. Artisans now create modern adaptations, such as home décor pieces, decorative masks, and wall hangings, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics and expanding the craft's creative possibilities.