The manufacturing process of Lokta paper

The origin of lokta paper goes back at least 800 years. Lokta paper is made from the bark of Daphne bushes in Nepal. Daphne bushes grow at high altitudes ranging from 6,500 to 9,500 feet. The Daphne Papyracea variety (also known as Indian paper plant, Indian paper tree, or Nepalese paper plant) is normally used to make lokta paper, but Daphne Cannabina can also be used for this purpose. The bushes have a regenerative quality, in that after the bark of the plant has been harvested, it can grow back to maturity in approximately four to six years. This capability gives Nepalese papermakers the ability to enjoy a sustainable resource instead of regular papermakers using traditional paper pulp from trees. Many impoverished Nepali citizens consider themselves lucky to find work in the making of this document as they reside in an area with scarce employment and resources.

Lokta paper is not only made from a renewable resource, but the quality is also exceptional. The Nepalese claim that lotka paper can survive 1,000 years if properly cared for. Lotka paper is known for its exceptional resistance and impermeability to insects. Lokta paper features a pleasant yet durable texture that is perfect for wrapping and preserving scented items such as spices and incense. Lokta paper is currently very popular with those looking for quality handmade paper products such as gift wrap, stationery, drawing tablets and many others. paper goods Lokta paper is often a favorite with artisans, as its unique texture and grooves provide a distinct look and feel not found in factory-produced papers. It’s also a great paper for tinting. Lokta paper offers engaged couples the opportunity to obtain rare wedding invitations. Instead of receiving characterless, identically reproduced invitations, the couple’s guests can enjoy an invitation that feels more personalized and special.

Nepalese lokta makers travel from their villages to the mountains to find the evergreen Daphne bushes. Daphne Papyracea bushes are found in the high Himalayas from Pakistan to Nepal. At their tallest, Daphne will reach a height of 10 to 15 feet, with young trees measuring around five to six feet. Daphne is known to have very strong, sweet-scented, four-petaled white flowers to 1 inch. The trunk of the Daphne bush is about two to three inches in diameter.

The process of making lokta paper is similar to traditional manual papermaking methods. Daphne is ready for harvest in October. Harvesters cut the bark at the base of the plant in a similar way to harvesting sugarcane. Once the bark has been harvested, it is pounded and boiled. After boiling, it is rinsed and churned again, cut into small pieces and boiled a second time. Once this is done, the pulp is pounded with a little water and made into a fine paste. Just like traditional manual papermaking, the resulting mixture is poured into a frame and submerged in water. The pulp is evenly distributed throughout the frame to ensure an even page. When a satisfactory plaster is acquired, the framework is allowed to dry in the sun. When dry, the paper peels off the frame. Once the paper is complete, it can be run through a press to ensure consistent quality with the thickness of each page. This process illustrates another way in which lokta papermaking is sustainable, as the producers do not use electricity during the process.

Lokta paper is the favorite of those who are looking for handmade, sustainable and quality products that do not harm the environment. By harvesting the Daphne bushes, the harvest is strengthened. If left to grow naturally, the plant will tend to dry out without producing any new growth. Another way that the process of making lokta paper is eco-friendly is that it is not bleached or treated with harmful chemicals like chlorine, as traditional paper often is. The lokta papermaking business is an integral part of Nepal’s economy, but does not disturb its fragile forest ecosystem. Those who purchase lokta paper can rest assured that they are not only supporting Nepal’s economy, but also its delicate environment.