Techniques

Preparing the Base

• Walls or surfaces are cleaned and sometimes coated with a thin layer of clay or cow dung for smoothness.

• This creates a stable foundation for the design.

Making the Mud Mixture

• Artists mix mud/clay with water and sometimes cow dung to get a thick, malleable paste.

• This paste is used to form raised designs on the walls.

Hand Molding

• The clay paste is applied by hand or with fingers to make shapes like flowers, animals, and geometric patterns.

• Small pieces are shaped and pressed onto the wall for a 3D effect.

Embedding Mirrors (Abhla)

• Tiny mirrors, called Abhla, are embedded into the clay designs.

• Mirrors reflect light, giving the art a sparkling effect even in dim lighting.

Pattern Creation

• Patterns are often geometric, floral, or inspired by nature.

• Designs are symmetrical and repeated to cover large surfaces.

Drying and Finishing

• The design is allowed to dry naturally.

• Sometimes a light coating of cow dung is applied over the design to protect it and enhance contrast.

Color Addition (Optional)

• Traditional Lippan art is usually white on mud-colored walls, but some artists add natural pigments for extra effect.