A torn edge of Lokta paper ~ note the fine fibres
Nepali lokta paper has a number of differences from what we in Europe think of as 'normal' paper. These can be put to advantage once they are appreciated. Conversely it may be found quite unsatisfactory for some uses. Here ~ in no particular order ~ I illustrate some of the properties. There is an introduction to lokta papers ~ here [122241]
Lokta paper has no grain, and is resistant to tearing. This makes it strong.The fibres are flexible, and the paper has handling properties which are almost cloth like. The paper remains strong even when sopping wet. I have seen pictures of workers dying the paper in vats and dipping and draining sheets of paper as if they were bundles of cotton.
The surface is not smooth ~ some of the chunky fibres remain embedded below the surface. Imperfections ~ bits of unclean bark ~ remain visible. These properties will vary according to the quality of the manufacture. Some papers are prepared with one ~ or two ~ quite smooth surfaces. Some are smooth enough to be used in a laser printer ~ I would not suggest this for fear of ruining a printer which is not designed for unusual materials.
The paper is translucent and 'show-through' might well be an issue for some users.
A speciality version of the paper ~ widely available for sale ~ has flower petals embedded in it. Small petals from Nepali flowers ~ cornflower ~ marigold ~ rose ~ are used, and sometimes a mix of several. The petals are added to the mix during manufacture, and so lie slightly under the surface. The distribution of the petals varies greatly ~ some sheets have very few ~ rose petals are rather more sparsely scattered ~ others have clumps that slipped out of the hand of the artisan. Often the petals stick out of the paper ~ and may even get brushed off when the surface is wiped.
Here are some links to other relevant pages ~
~ [122270] Cornflower lokta paper
