Phan Hai Bang, a lecturer of Hue University of Art, is reviving the making of bamboo paper, of Truc chi, to use in traditional craft works.
Pictures made from bamboo paper
Bang began working with bamboo paper as a student in the 1990s, learning traditional papermaking techniques and working in craft villages in Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. He began his own project in 2002.
"Truc chi" literally translates as "paper made from bamboo" and he hopes to add the craft to Hue's image of heritage buildings and fine cuisine.
The paper is made by cutting bamboo into sections and slicing those into thin sticks, which are soaked in water for a night and then cooked in solvent lime for half a day. Cooking the sticks softens them, so they can be beaten into a pulp.
The pulp is mixed with water and poured into a mould to create a sheet of paper, which is then dried under the sun.
It is used in various art, decoration and installation works, including handbags, lanterns, gift boxes and umbrellas.
A selection of Truc chi is on show at the Hue Traditional Craft Festival from April 29 until May 3.
Postcards, handbooks, conical hats made from Truc chi
Truc chi candle covers
The process to make Truc chi
