This Paper Mâché utility box is one of those rare finds that blends everyday usefulness with the charm of traditional craftsmanship. Made entirely by hand, it’s shaped from recycled paper and natural glue, then carefully painted on the top with bright, folk-inspired designs that instantly lift your space.
The lid features bold colours and simple, expressive artwork—often floral or tribal in theme—painted by artisans who’ve inherited this skill through generations. No two boxes are exactly alike. Each one carries the small, beautiful imperfections that make handmade things feel personal and real.
Sturdy enough to hold your jewellery, keepsakes, keys, or desk bits, it’s just the right size for a bedside table, bookshelf, or dressing corner. The inside is left raw and natural, keeping the honest, earthy feel of paper mâché alive.
What we love most? It’s not factory-made. It’s crafted slowly, carefully, and sustainably in the heart of Odisha—by people who love what they do and let it show in every brushstroke.
Whether you're organising your essentials or looking for a thoughtful, eco-friendly gift, this little box is practical, beautiful, and full of soul. A piece of art you can actually use, and a small way to bring handmade tradition into your daily life.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATION
Product Name |
Handcrafted Paper Mâché Utility/Storage Box (Round) |
Type |
Handmade Decorative Utility Box |
Material |
Recycled Paper, Natural Adhesives |
Craft Technique |
Traditional Paper Mâché with Hand-Painted Design |
Top Surface Design |
Floral or Folk-Inspired Motifs, Painted by Hand |
Interior |
Unlined, Natural Paper Mâché Finish |
Artisan Origin |
Made by Skilled Craftspeople in Odisha, India |
Colour |
Multicolour Top, Natural Paper Base |
Size |
Approx. 112.6 cm x 8 cm (sizes may vary slightly as each is handmade) |
Use Case |
Ideal for Jewellery, Keys, Stationery, Gifting, or Home Décor |
Finish |
Glossy Finish with Textured Detail on Lid |
Production Method |
100% Handmade Using Sustainable Materials |
Durability |
Lightweight, Durable with Proper Indoor Use |
Sustainability |
Eco-Friendly, Recyclable, Plastic-Free, Ethically Made |
STORY BEHIND THIS CRAFT
The tradition of paper mâché in Odisha dates back several centuries and is deeply rooted in the region’s ethos of sustainability, creativity, and folk expression. Originally developed in rural communities as a way to repurpose waste paper and natural materials, the craft gained prominence for its use in religious rituals, festive decorations, and the making of masks and idols for village performances.
Over time, artisans began experimenting with the medium, creating not just ceremonial objects but decorative and functional items like utility boxes, trays, toys, and wall art. The technique involves mixing shredded paper with natural adhesives such as rice starch or tamarind paste, moulding it into shape, and then hand-painting it with bright, folk-inspired designs.
Practised today in artisan-rich districts like Puri, Nayagarh, and Cuttack, Odisha’s paper mâché continues to thrive as a low-cost, eco-conscious, and culturally rich craft, passed down through generations. It is now recognised not only for its handmade charm but also for its relevance in contemporary sustainable design.