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The history of handmade
paper dates back to 105 AD, with its origin in China. However, Indians
hold the credit of having used paper from cellulose fibers during third
century BC. The handmade paper industry that had flourished in India
during the Mughal era gradually declined with the establishment of paper
mills during the 18th and 19th centuries. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy
that the art of handmade papermaking was revived under the inspiration of
Mahatma Gandhi.
Today, the handmade paper industry has over 157 handmade paper working
units all over the country. These produce around Rs 21 crore worth of
papers, providing full time employment to around 10,000 persons in the
rural areas. In contrast, there is a sharp decline of the industry in
countries like Japan and European countries.
The handmade paper in
India is produced mainly by recycling waste agro raw materials such as
cotton rags, in the form of tailor cutting, hosiery cutting; and small
quantities of waste paper. Other agro fibers like jute, straw, banana are
also used to blend with the primary fibers for mottling effect etc.
Handmade papers have an elegant appeal and an exquisite surface for
writing. Innumerable varieties for decorative wrapping purposes are now
available. They come in appealing varieties, with small dried flowers and
leaves, colored fiber etc., making them attractive. It has huge tensile,
bursting, tearing and double fold strength as compared to mill paper and
it does not turn brittle due to aging.
Among the many items made, products like deckle edged drawing stationary,
carry bags from natural fibers account for over 400 crores worth exports
to developed countries every year. With the technological developments,
handmade paper despite its non-glazing appearance is ideally suited for
four-color production on offset machine.
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