Lokta Bark Collection — Nepalese Handmade Paper Plant

Lokta (Daphne bholua and Daphne papyracea) is a shrub found at elevations of 1600-4000 meters in the Himalayan region of Nepal. The plant grows 1-4 meters tall and its inner bark (bast fiber) is used to make world-famous Nepali handmade paper. The history of Nepali lokta paper is over 1000 years old — it has been used for religious scriptures, government documents, and artistic paper. Daphne bholua is called "lokta" in Nepali, and D. papyracea is also called "lokta" — paper is made from both species.

The best time to collect Lokta bark is from late autumn (October-November) to the beginning of spring (February-March) — that is, before new branches sprout. During this time, the sap of the plant flows less and the bark separates easily. It is not appropriate to collect during the rainy season (June-September) — the bark becomes wet, transportation becomes difficult, and drying is also hard. Collection should be done on dry days.

Soak dried (or fresh) inner bark in clean water for 24-48 hours. This softens the bark fibers and makes it easier to boil in the next step. Use a large container with enough water to completely submerge the bark. Change the water after 24 hours — dust and other impurities will come out in the first water. The soaked bark should be soft, flexible, and easy to break by hand.

Store the prepared lokta paper by stacking it on a flat surface in a dry, moisture-free location. Keep it in a place where direct sunlight does not fall — prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the paper to turn yellow. Clean paper or cloth can be placed between the sheets of lokta paper. Uses of lokta paper: government certificates, religious texts, artistic prints, envelopes, gift wrapping, lampshades, and book binding. Handmade lokta paper from Nepal is sold at high prices in the international market — especially in Japan, Europe, and America.