Grass Mache Technique

• 15 Sep 2026

Recently, a Srinagar artisan has developed the Grass Mache technique, converting aquatic weeds and grasses removed from Dal Lake into decorative and utility products.

What is Grass Mache Technique?

• It is an innovative craft technique that uses aquatic weeds and grasses removed from Dal Lake as raw material for handicrafts.
• It adapts Kashmir’s traditional papier-mâché techniques to convert biological waste into decorative and utility products.

How Does it Work?

• Aquatic weeds are dried and processed into fine fibrous pulp.
• The pulp is mixed with suitable materials, moulded into desired shapes and dried.
• The finished products acquire a natural, stone-like texture, combining traditional craftsmanship with environmental sustainability.

Kashmir Papier-Mâché: Cultural Context

• Origin: Was introduced to Kashmir by Muslim saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani from Persia in the 14th century.
• Themes: Flowers, box patterns, jungle motifs.
• Designs: Hazara and Gul-i-wilayat are prominent traditional patterns featuring flowers, foliage and birds.
• GI Protection: Protected under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.