Papier-Mâché & Decor

Kashmiri papier-mâché (known locally as kar-i-qalamdani) is a lacquerware craft in which objects are moulded from paper pulp, hand-painted, and sealed with transparent natural lacquer.

Hand-painted Kashmiri papier-mâché decorative box with lacquered floral naqashi motifs
Collection 04

Papier-Mâché & Decor

Kashmiri papier-mâché (known locally as kar-i-qalamdani) is a lacquerware craft in which objects are moulded from paper pulp, hand-painted, and sealed with transparent natural lacquer.

Production divides into sakhtsazi (moulding) and naqashi (painting). The finished piece is coated with lacquer derived from the badam (almond) tree.

Soznique's papier-mâché collection includes lacquered boxes, festive ornaments, and decorative pieces from Srinagar ateliers.

  • Local name: kar-i-qalamdani
  • Two-stage process: sakhtsazi (moulding) and naqashi (painting)
  • GI-protected: Kashmir Paper Machie (Geographical Indication No. 181)
  • Products: boxes, ornaments, bowls, trays, vases, and festive decor