The process is extremely delicate and complicated. It begins with the gathering of choose leaves from the Chinar tree which is native to India, Pakistan and China. The leaves are then put through a 60 step process such as shaving, pressing, curing, dying and so on. The outer surface of the leaf is carefully removed without cutting or removing the leafs veins which add detail into the subject matter of the carving.
After special processing, the leaf blade forms a natural permanent pigment, so the color is stable, and corrosion resistance. An anti-aging treatment helps the leaves exceed the durability of thick paper. The finish product is strong, durable, natural and beautiful, and makes an excellent gift or collection.
http://www.leafcarvingart.com/
