papéri

Papéri is a traditional material and craft that refers to a sheet-like substrate produced by layering and binding natural plant fibers with adhesives. The resulting sheets are flexible, durable, and suitable for writing surfaces, book bindings, and decorative panels. The term and the practice are associated with communities within the broader Papéri cultural sphere.

Production of papéri begins with the harvesting and preparation of plant fibers, which are cleaned, aligned, and beaten to create long, uniform strands. These strands are layered and bound with natural binders such as plant starch or resin, then pressed under weight to form a cohesive sheet. The sheets are dried, sometimes finished with a light wax or varnish to enhance surface feel and durability.

Historically, papéri served as a versatile substrate for manuscripts, coverings for books and objects, banners, and ceremonial items. Variants exist with different fiber blends and thicknesses, enabling uses from delicate writing sheets to sturdier panels and structural elements.

Cultural significance is central to papéri. Its making is often a communal activity, passed down through families and local workshops. The craft is tied to memory, storytelling, and ritual practice, and efforts to document and revive traditional techniques have helped sustain its transmission.

In contemporary practice, papéri appears in art, installation work, and design objects, frequently in dialogue with textiles, wood, or metal. Artisans and designers emphasize sustainability and handmade skill, contributing to a cautious revival and wider awareness of the technique within regional and international craft networks.