From Muzaffarabad, eight women turn paper into miracles

65 items were put up on sale at the exhibit.

ISLAMABAD:

Shazia, a single woman from Muzaffarabad, is an earthquake survivor. Although the natural disaster left her crippled, she is now the proud breadwinner for her family, and that too through one of the most creative ways possible — making paper beads.

The paper miracles initiative, a programme organised by the Rotary Club of Islamabad, Renaissance and JOBS International, carried out its first exhibition here at a hotel to showcase the works of eight paraplegic women from Muzaffarabad.

The eight women had been taught to create artificial jewellery using recycled paper. “The process is very interesting. All you have to do is take a strip of finely cut paper and carefully glue it together while rolling it into a bead,” said Aine, the trainer for these women. Although the process is interesting, the end result is even more so — upon observation not many will be able to tell that the beads are made of paper.

With over 65 items set upon tables for people to purchase, the necklaces, earrings and bracelets the paper beads sparkled in bright blue, pink and red. The paper beads had been cleverly mixed with plastic ones and strung along metal chains, giving a trendy effect.

The craftsmanship of the jewellery seemed at par with the artificial jewellery one would see at various shops around the city, and the varnishing had been done to perfection.

“I think it’s an interesting idea, these are the sort of things one can give as gifts or keep for themselves as they are one of a kind,” said Zahra, a visitor at the exhibition.

Although the beads seemed to sell pretty fast, former Rotary Club president Jahangir Sherpao assured people that they can always preorder jewellery.

“The aim of the exhibition is to put [the work of] these women out there, and after this we will be taking orders.”

Published in The Express Tribune, December 12^th, 2012.