| Making of Etikay Exclusives
Natural dye/colour preparation
There is a specific procedure for preparing different dyes. The raw
material derived from different parts of various trees or plants are
powdered and boiled to form a thick solution till it starts producing
lather. The concentrates are then filtered. The colours and shades depend
on various factors - such as the temperature at which it is boiled,
duration of boiling, quantities of water and raw material boiled. For
instance, to prepare a concentrate of red or orange, one kg seeds of
Bixa orellana are mixed with two and half (2 1/2) litre of water and boiled on a small
domestic oven for twenty to thirty minutes. The concentrate is cooled
and filtered to mix with lacquer. However, some colours have a complex
and systematic process of preparing the concentrate.
Lacquerware
Lacquer craft is the application of lacquer on wood in pleasing shades and colours
to create a distinctive appeal. The beauty of this craft lies in painting the smooth
wooden shapes. Etikoppaka in Andhra Pradesh is the hometown of lacquer ware. It is said that
this craft originated in the neighboring Nakkapalli village before it spread to Etikoppaka, its
present home. The proximity to the forest area with plenty of yield of Ankudu Karra, a light and non timber
species of wood, promoted the concentration of this art in Etikoppaka.
Lacquering is done on a lathe, by hand or using machine. For
turning slender and delicate items, the hand-lathe is preferred. Lac
is applied in a dry state. The process involves the pressing of lac
stick against the rotating woodenware. As the latter keeps revolving
the heat from the friction softens the lac enabling the colour to stick.
Designs are painted with a brush on figures, objects and toys. As these
articles are made by using lathes, they are called "Turned Toys".
Etikay lac bangles are one of the most famous lacquerware. In ancient
times these bangles were studded with gold and precious stones making them
a status symbol.
Lacquered containers are also available in
unique shapes, sizes and shades.
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