Gampi paper comes from the Philippines, where the Abaci tree grows. The tree looks very similar to the banana tree. The fibres have been popular for centuries because they are extremely strong. The tree produces long fibres with a beautiful sheen. Other fibres are added, including cogon grass, a weed that was not used for anything until it was discovered that it could be processed into paper.
The peeled bark is boiled in large vats and crushed. The paper pulp is dissolved in water, evenly distributed by hand on large scoop frames, and petals or dried leaves, for example, are added. The scoop frames are then left to dry in the sun.
There are many small workshops in the Philippines where this paper is produced. It is an important source of employment there. The company we work with is WFTO certified.
