Barichara -Plant paper Workshop-

Village colonial encerclé par la Cordillère, là où les habitants prônent la tranquillité et le savoir faire artisanal. J’ai eu l’immense plaisir de participer à un atelier de fabrication de papier à la fondation San Lorenzo - taller de papel.

Ce grand espace aux murs blancs, anciennement usine à tabac, offre à 9 femmes de la communauté de Santander des emplois stables, sécuritaires, valorisants et rémunérés. Chaque salaire est possible grâce aux profits amassé par la boutique, où leurs magnifiques créations d’objets de papiers y sont vendues; mobiles, cahiers, sculptures, broches,… difficile d’y résister tellement que tout est magnifique!

   

Dès l’arrivée on m’annonce que plusieurs tortues viendront me saluer lors de ma visite guidée dans le jardin, situé à l’arrière de l’espace atelier, là où l’on y cueille les fibres naturelles à partir d’une grande variété de plantes, don le Fique.(et des tortues, j’en ai vue )

On m’explique ensuite, étapes par étapes, chacune des techniques nécessaires à la création d’une feuille de papier: trempage, cuisson, teinte, battage, cadrage, séchage et patience.

 

Je ne pourrais décrire le sentiment de bien-être que cette expérience m’a apportée, encore moins la fierté d’avoir créer ma première feuille de papier. Mais chose certaine, j’ai été grandement inspirée et j’y reviendrai!

Barichara, Colombia is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. One hidden gem in this picturesque town is the traditional paper workshop that produces paper from natural fibers, particularly the fique plant.

What is the fique plant?

The fique plant, native to the Andean region, is a species of agave that produces strong and durable fibers. These fibers are extracted from the leaves of the plant and have been used for centuries to create various products, including textiles and paper.

How is plant-made paper produced?

In the paper workshop in Barichara, artisans follow a meticulous process to transform fique fibers into paper. The fibers are first harvested, cleaned, and then beaten to create a pulp. This pulp is then mixed with water and spread onto screens to form sheets of paper. The paper is then dried and pressed to create a smooth and sturdy final product.

Why choose plant-made paper?

Plant-made paper, such as that produced in Barichara, is not only environmentally friendly but also incredibly durable. The natural fibers give the paper a unique texture and appearance, making it a popular choice for artists, designers, and eco-conscious consumers.

Exploring the paper workshop in Barichara

Visitors to Barichara have the opportunity to visit the paper workshop and witness the traditional paper-making process firsthand. They can observe skilled artisans at work, learn about the history of paper production in the region, and even try their hand at making their own plant-made paper.

Barichara's natural fiber paper workshop is a testament to the town's commitment to preserving traditional crafts and promoting sustainable practices. The next time you find yourself in this charming Colombian town, be sure to pay a visit to this hidden gem and discover the beauty of plant-made paper.