Papier parasols
Shan,
Myanmar
Traditional paper parasols, an art that is being lost as cheap nylon umbrellas imported from China are gaining favour.
The traditional parasol is made from Tin-wah bamboo and oiled Mulberry paper. The raw materials are locally produced. The bamboo is soaked for some time in foul water, to prevent it from the danger of insects later. The paper is coated with oil to help repel both sunshine and rain. The head and sliding hub of the parasol are made of teak, manufactured by using a simple turning lathe. The other important parts the framework are, the cover or leave, the rib, the trigger, the handle and the shaft. The measurements of each part have to be so accurate. Putting the covering (leaves) on the frame is the most difficult, to be mastered only after about three years' experience. This is performed by the father, the intricate work of folding was done by the mother, while the daughter makes the crown.