Bamboo: the processes involved

Here are the basic processes involved in making bamboo products:

-Get dry bamboo (it MUST be dry because otherwise, it cracks later and cuts, smoothening, sandpapering, etc, do not happen as neatly) according to the width, type and size of the product.
-First, the bamboo is stripped (sort of like peeling a vegetable) and then smoothened (with sandpaper).
-If it needs to be burnt, it is done now. Burning is done using a kerosene torch. Then it is sandpapered again to remove soot.
-Now, the bamboo is marked and cut according to the design, and if wanted, the sharp edges are smoothened with a file and sandpaper.
-The next step depends on the product. The assembling takes place, where marking is done and the parts are neatly joined (usually with a mixture of fevicol and sawdust) and left to dry for a while.
-Next, the product is carved if needed.
-Finally, it is sandpapered once more and one or more coats of touchwood or melamine is applied. The product is left to dry.

Another step is going to be added by us at the end of this, consisting of attaching tags and packaging.

We are also looking into the process of 'heat treatment' by using a blowtorch to dry green bamboo quickly so that production may be quicker.