Such paper, previously not found on the market, is also becoming popular among the city dwellers.

Made from waste products, the recycled paper is however quite expensive, each piece selling at Tk 9 to Tk 50.

"Because of high production cost, entrepreneurs are usually shy from recycled paper projects," said Abdul Wahad, manager of Creations, which has come up with a range of hand-made paper. "But we have been in this business for the last eight years and enjoying a rather steady business ever since."

Jute, cotton, tea-dust, water hyacinth, rice husk, grass and a lot of other materials are used as ingredients in recycled paper. They come in attractive designs, textures and various thickness. a lot more demanding. Bamboo leaves, straws and other items from the nature are embedded in the paper to make interesting patterns.

Such papers are in great demand to the Dhaka University students.

"Many fine arts and architecture students are our frequent customers," said Wahed. Different organisations also use them for greeting cards and wrapping paper.

"We are also making our own line of products such as note-books, greeting cards, spiral pads, pen holders, photo frames and so on," said Wahed.

Creations aims to export these items in the future.