The origin of lokta paper dates back a minimum of 800 years. Lokta paper is made from the bark of Daphne bushes in Nepal. Daphne shrubs grow at high altitudes ranging from 6,500 to 9,500 feet. The variety Daphne Papyracea (also known as the Indian paper plant, Indian paper tree, or Nepali paper plant) is typically used to make lokta paper, but Daphne Cannabina can also be used for this purpose. Shrubs have a regenerative quality in that after the bark of the plant has been harvested, it can regrow to maturity in about four to six years. This capability gives Nepalese paper producers the ability to enjoy a sustainable resource instead of regular paper manufacturers using traditional paper pulp from trees. Many impoverished Nepalis consider themselves lucky to find work producing this document, as they reside in an area with few jobs and resources.
Lokta paper is not only made from a renewable resource, but the quality is also exceptional. Nepalis 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 has a pleasant yet durable texture that is perfect for wrapping and preserving scented items like spices and incense. Today Lokta paper is very popular among those looking for quality handmade paper products such as gift wrap, stationery, drawing tablets and many others. Paper Goods Lokta paper is often favored by crafters, as its unique texture and ridges provide a distinct look and feel not found in factory-produced papers. It is also a great paper for dyeing. Lokta paper offers engaged couples the chance to get rare wedding invitations. Instead of receiving characterless, identically replicated invitations, the couple’s guests can enjoy an invitation that feels more personalized and special.
Nepal’s lokta farmers travel from their villages to the mountains to find the evergreen Daphne bushes. Daphne Papyracea shrubs are found in the high Himalayas from Pakistan to Nepal. At its tallest, Daphne will reach a height of 10 to 15 feet, with saplings 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 paper making methods. Daphne is ready for harvest in October. Harvesters cut the bark at the base of the plant in a manner similar to harvesting sugarcane. Once the bark has been harvested, it is pounded and boiled. After boiling, it is rinsed and beaten 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. 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 frame is allowed to dry in the sun. When dry, the paper is peeled off the frame. Once the paper is complete, it can be run through a press to ensure consistent quality in 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 looking for quality, sustainable, handmade products that do not harm the environment. By harvesting 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 lokta paper-making process is eco-friendly is that they are 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 be sure that they are not only supporting Nepal’s economy, but its delicate environment as well.