Manufacturing & Processing

Paper mache, so common a term is east and in west, is French in origin pronounced a "Papya Masha" meaning molded pulp. Pulp is the most important ingredient used in the manufacture of paper mache objects.  Most of the objects for paper mache work are made in three dimensions for which different types of moulds are made in wood and clay. Small pieces of paper are pasted with glue on the mould, the layer is dried and second layer of paper pasted. In this way at least seven to eight layers are placed one over the other and object is left to dry. Next pieces of muslin are wrapped on it which is followed by a wash of “Gatch” consisting of old wall plaster and glue, the object is again left to dry. On drying, the mould is removed and the object is smoothened with the help of a small saw called “Kathwaw”. On the final object subjected to above process small pieces of paper are pasted over it with the help of glue  to  secure it against cracks etc.

Next, color is applied to the object firstly as a protective layer and secondly as a decorative element. The colors painted on objects are made from pigments diluted in water to which some glue is added to fix to the ground on which it is used. Three categories of colors are used. Mineral (both actual and artificial), Organic (both plants, insects and trees etc), Vegetables (as indigo etc).

The final object of paper mache is given one or two coats of varnish which besides giving it shine also serves as a protective agent.

Important designs and motifs in paper mache designs that chiefly stand out are : - Objects of nature, Mythological figures, Animals, Court Scene, Hunting Scenes, Battle Scenes.

The product range covers, ring boxes, pill boxes, Boxes of assorted shapes and sizes, flower vases, wall plaques, bowls, ashtrays, screens, etc.

                  
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