Meaning “chewed paper” in French, it is a composite material made of pulped paper mixed with a glue or adhesive paste and other fibrous materials. The term also applies to paper strips that are adhered to or pressed between moulds, or papier-mâché that includes plaster. Its use originated in present-day China, and the technique of crafting objects from it was well-established in Asia over several centuries before being introduced to Europe in the thirteenth century. In Europe, it gradually became a substitute for plaster and stucco in furniture ornamentation, and several finishes were developed for its use. It is now also used in sculpture.
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Mohair
Fibre derived from the hair of Angora goats, it is used to make mohair yarn and fabric. It is known…
Albumen Paper
Photographic printing paper that is coated with albumen, or egg white, and salt before being dipped in a silver nitrate…
Aniline Dye
A category of synthetic dyes made with a base material of coal-tar derivatives. Aniline is an organic compound derived from…
Harda
The fruit of the black myrobalan plant (Terminalia Chebula), it is used to make a natural dye for textiles such…
Resham
An Oriya term meaning "silk."
Hemp
Textile fibre derived from the hemp plant Cannabis sativa, which also yields oilseeds, and leaves and flowers with psychoactive properties…
Alizarin
An organic compound found in the roots of some madder plants and the chay plant (Oldenlandia umbrella), all belonging to…
Sanganeri Paper
Handmade paper produced in Sanganer in Rajasthan. It is typically made using traditional methods and natural materials such as cotton…