Paper Making-
The deysho is the handmade paper of Bhutan which is made from the bark of Daphne plant and is used for printing religious texts, traditional books and wrapping gifts etc.
Most farms in Bhutan are up to traditional paper making for earning some extra income.
One can also find some paper factories in Bhutan which makes ornamental art paper using flower petals, leaves and other materials.
Wood Carving-
This craft form is an ancient craft of Bhutan which survives till today. Prayer flags of Bhutan are all printed from carved wooden blocks. Wood carving is also known as Parzo in Bhutan and apart from wood slate and stone is also used in carving. Traditional books which are still in demand are printed by using wooden blocks. Wood carvings of Bhutan adorn the pillars and windows of monasteries, offices, and public buildings etc.
Sword Making-
This art falls under blacksmithing or garzo (traditional name) and includes metal products like knives, chains, darts etc. Making of ceremonial swords are a highly specialized craft as these are sought after for ceremonious honors of gentries and senior officials of Bhutan. Then there is short knife Dudzom which is worn by almost every Bhutanese male and even children. Terton Pema Lingpa is considered as the best sword maker of all times.
Boot Making-
Traditional Bhutanese boots which are made of cloth are hand-stitched, embroidered and appliqued in motifs. Different colours are used to signify the status of the wearer. For Ministers it is orange, and for senior officials and laities it is red and white respectively.
Traditional boot making in Bhutan has been revived in recent years. For women there are ankle reach short. Even villagers and retired monks wear simple traditional boots.
Bamboo Craft-
Bamboo craft work in Bhutan is called thazo and many regions like Zhemgang and Trongsa are famous for their bamboo and cane craft like the belo (bamboo hat) and bangchung (Bhutanese Tupperware basket) respectively.
Bow and Arrow Making-
The national sport of Bhutan is archery; as such making of bamboo bows and arrows is given much importance. Different types of special bamboos and mountain reeds are made into bows and arrows. The same are expertly made into perfect bows and arrows that enable Bhutanese archers play a good game of archery.
Jewellery-
The traditional jewelry of Bhutan is usually made of silver or gold. Intricate motifs are designed on them. One will find traditional Bhutanese jewelry in the form of heavy bracelets, komas or dress fasteners, the kira, loop ear rings set with turquoise, and necklaces set with stones like antique turquoise, coral beads and the traditional zhi (cats' eye or agate) stone. During local festivals Bhutanese women turn up in their traditional jewelry like traditional necklaces set with corals.
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