What is Kashmiri Papier Mache?

The technique of Kashmiri Papier Mache has its roots in the period when Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani, a revered saint, from Persia, introduced it to India. The term “Papier Mache” has its origins, in language. Refers, to objects crafted by shaping and molding paper pulp in forms.

The uniqueness of Kashmiri Papier Mache lies in its aesthetic attraction, cultural importance, historical depth, and skilled craftsmanship passed down through generations which make it an esteemed and separate form of artistic expression.

Kashmiri Papier Mache Shawl

How to Make Papier Mache?

Kashmiri Papier Mache possesses a special, intricate crafting process that has given it an exalted status as an art form. The peculiarity lies in the careful procedures followed by experienced craftsmen to come up with these fine works:

  1. Raw Material and Preparation: Pulp made from discarded paper, cloth and rice straw. Paper is soaked in water for several weeks and then turned into a fine powder. It is common for the grounded paper to be mixed using rice water as a coagulant, forming the basic material used in this craft.

  2. Forming: The pulp is shaped with a lot of care into different figures that are made using wooden or brass molds. A few years back, potters used to make the molds out of clay. They lay down the wet pulp on top of the mold and dry each layer to come up with the shape as required.
  3. Ornamentation: Once the basic form has been achieved, there is a very elaborate process of decorating the craft. This procedure involves rubbing gemstones over dried pulp, applying gold and silver foils, and using wooden files to smooth the surface perfectly. Craftspeople prepare their surfaces for intricate painting by using a mixture of chalk and glue.

  4. Painting by Hand and Design: With organic colours such as pigments and glue, they go ahead to delicately paint some motifs like nature-inspired ones to others that represent scenes from history. The artists use brushes which are made from animal hair which demonstrates astonishing precision in their detailing work.

  5. Finishing Touches: Post painting, a coat of varnish is applied to the artwork made from such materials as amber or copal and then dried in the sun. The surface is cleaned thoroughly and silver and gold foils are applied again to emphasize the designs. Jade stones that smoothen the surface further are used making it a work of art that is done with great care.


Kashmir Papier Mache as an art has grown from its roots, in Sufism to become a symbol of creativity representing our rich heritage deserving not only preservation but also celebration. The mesmerising. The mountainous region of Kashmir has a time-honoured tradition of exquisite craftsmanship in making their own Papier Mache items that have been loved by the admirers of this unique art and craft form.