FAQs

How is handmade paper made?

A “deckle” with wire mesh is dipped in liquid containing the paper pulp, then put to dry to form paper. While the process is simple, trained artisans make good quality paper with consistency.

 Why is handmade paper more expensive?

Since each paper is made by hand, a small quantity can be made within one day. The scale of production cannot compete with the high volumes of paper made in large factories.

 What is the advantage of handmade paper?

Handmade paper has a unique character, a lower negative impact on the environment and helps provide improved livelihood for artisans.

 What is unique about handmade paper from Pakistan?

Pakistan is amongst the top 5 cotton production countries, factory clippings from textile production is easily available as raw material. The city of Lahore still has traditional bookbinders, which we support.

 Can one write and print on handmade paper?

Yes, the papers are “sized” with acid-free materials to enable writing and printing. Some of our papers do absorb ink/paper, which is preferred by artists.

 What materials are used to make handmade paper?

Some of the raw materials used are cotton waste, recycled paper and plant materials. The ratio of these materials depends upon the type of paper being prepared.

 I live outside Pakistan, how can I buy PARWANA Paper products?

We supply PARWANA Paper products to customers in UK, Europe, US, UAE and other countries. For North America we have an authorized distributor that makes the products available on the Etsy website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PARWANAPaper