Lokta (Daphne Bark) Paper

The Himalayan paper used for Buddhist sutras for 1000 years.

Texture

Lightly textured, very strong, long-lasting

Yield

≈ 4 sheets per branch

Bark from the Himalayan lokta bush, cooked, beaten, and poured into sheets that dry in the sun.

▸Plant regrows from the same root after harvesting — naturally sustainable.
▸Resists bugs and mold for centuries.
▸Used for Buddhist scripture and tax records in Nepal.

Steps

01
Soak bark, then cook 4 hours in alkaline water.
02
Rinse and beat bark on stone with a mallet 30+ minutes.
03
Float the mould on a still pool of water; pour pulp on the screen and even it out by hand.
04
Lift, drain, sun-dry the mould with the sheet still attached.
05
Peel off when bone-dry.

Materials

— Lokta (Daphne bholua) bark
— Wood ash or washing soda
— Mallet and stone anvil
— Wood-frame mould (no deckle — Himalayan style floats sheets on water)

Safety

Low Risk

Mostly hand tools and inert materials. Standard studio hygiene applies.

Quick checklist

☐Work in a ventilated area; keep food and drink out of the studio
☐Read each material's safety data sheet (SDS) before starting
☐Have water, soap, and a first-aid kit accessible

Heuristic guidance derived from listed materials. Always consult each material's safety data sheet (SDS) and a qualified instructor before attempting.

Notes

Naturally insect-resistant due to the daphne resin. The frame-floating method is unique to the Himalayas.