Design Resource
Traditional Toys of Kondapalli
The Craft of Wooden Toys
by
J. N. Somya
Finishing
The skeleton of the toy after carving has rough and square edges. These edges are rounded to give the toy a smooth body by applying makku. This gives the final shape to the toy. This also conceals all signs and joints.
Makku is made by boiling a mixture of finely ground powder of tamarind seeds and sawdust in water until it becomes a smooth paste. It is applied using a tool called palapu chekka. This tool is a thin and smooth piece that fits comfortably in one's hands, made by filling a cow’s horn into a smooth oval-shaped device. The use of this tool is also a unique feature in the production process. Brown paper or newspaper or cloth is stuck on the cracked areas using maida solution reinforcing the strength of the toy. After it dries, it is smoothened with sandpaper.
