The origin of lokta paper dates back to a minimum of 800 years ago. Lokta paper is made from the bark of the Daphne shrubs in Nepal. Daphne shrubs grow at high altitudes ranging from 6500 to 9500 feet. The Daphne Papyracea variety (also known as Indian paper plant, Indian paper tree, or Nepalese paper plant) is typically used to make lokta paper, but Daphne Cannabina can also be used for this purpose. The shrubs boast a regenerative quality, as once the bark has been harvested from the plant, it can grow back to maturity in about four to six years. This ability gives Nepalese paper producers the possibility of enjoying a sustainable resource instead of the usual paper manufacturers that use traditional paper pulp from trees. Many impoverished Nepalese citizens consider themselves fortunate to find work in the preparation of this document, as they reside in an area that is scarce in employment and resources.
Not only is lokta paper made from a renewable resource, but the quality is exceptional too. Nepalese have claimed that lotka paper can survive for 1,000 years if properly cared for. Lotka paper is known for its exceptional resistance and impermeability to insects. Lokta paper has a nice yet durable texture that is perfect for wrapping and preserving scented items like spices and incense. Lokta paper is currently very popular for those looking for quality handmade paper products such as wrapping paper, stationery, drawing tablets, and many others. paper items. Lokta paper is often a favorite among artisans, as its unique texture and grooves 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 opportunity to make unusual wedding invitations. Rather than receiving identically reproduced invitations without character, the couple’s guests can enjoy an invitation that feels more personalized and special.
Nepalese producers of lokta travel from their villages to the mountains to find the evergreen shrubs of Daphne. Daphne Papyracea shrubs are found in the high Himalayas from Pakistan to Nepal. At its highest point, Daphne will reach a height of 10 to 15 feet, with saplings that are around five to six feet tall. Daphne is known to have very strong, sweet-scented, four-petalled white flowers at 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 that of traditional manual paper making methods. Daphne will be ready to harvest in October. Gatherers cut the bark at the base of the plant in a manner close to harvesting sugarcane. Once the bark is collected, it is crushed and boiled. After boiling, it is rinsed and beaten again, cut into small pieces and boiled a second time. Once this is complete, the pulp is mashed with a little water and turns into a fine paste. Like traditional paper making by hand, the resulting mixture is poured into a frame and immersed in water. The pulp is evenly distributed throughout the frame to ensure a smooth page. When a satisfactory plaster is obtained, the frame is placed in the sun to dry. When dry, the paper peels off the frame. Once the paper is complete, it can be run through a press to ensure consistent quality for the thickness of each page. This process illustrates another way in which lokta papermaking is sustainable, as 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 the Daphne bushes, the harvest really gets stronger. If allowed to grow naturally, the plant will tend to dry out without producing any new growth. Another way that the lokta papermaking process is eco-friendly is that they are not bleached and treated with harmful chemicals like chlorine, like traditional paper in general. The Lokta papermaking business is an integral part of the Nepalese economy, but it does not disrupt its fragile forest ecosystem. Those who buy lokta paper can rest assured that they are not only supporting Nepal’s economy, but also its delicate environment.