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Design Resource
Dhokra Shilp
The Bell Metal Craft of Bastar
by
Raw Materials and Tools
• Raw Materials:
Brass:
The primary raw material is brass which is collected from brass scrap or used brass utensils. The scrap is available from local traders for Rs. 220/- to Rs. 250/- per kg.
Black Soil:
The black soil is collected from beds of the fields.
Rice Husk:
Rice husk is procured from mill. It is mixed with soil as clay tends to break while drying. It also prevents the cracking of mould during firing.
Riverside Soil:
It is obtained from the riverbanks. This red colored soil is soft & easy to shape & mould. It facilitates good final shape & finishing of the product.
Cow-Dung (Gobar):
It is mixed with river soil, which allows the wax to melt out of the cast.
Termite Clay:
The fine clay is collected from termite bills.
Bean Leaves:
Lima bean (sem patta) leaves picked up from the plants due to their water content.
Fire Wood:
It generally obtained from nearby forests.
• Tools:
The common tools used are:
- Chisel,
- Wooden Mallet,
- Hammer,
- Phichki-Pharni (Hand-held press),
- Pliers,
- Tongs,
- Wire brushes.
