How to make a Coconut Lamp in Bali

The shade is made from a cotton string ball, the holder from a coconut tree leaf. Simple and beautiful. I wanted to go and see the production in action so we invited ourselves along. This boss - a jolly guy - was delighted to show us his workshop, He met us at his showroom on the Tegallalang road just outside of Ubud, and then a short walk away down a small alley we see cotton ball shades drying in the sun then a big stack of coconut leafs, a special type imported from Java because of the leafs size and ability to be moulded. 

This really is a family business the does the finishing, his wife makes the cotton ball shades and his son is the master of shaping the leafs. Using a blow torch and a wine bottle the son expertly shapes the leafs.

We asked how the shades are made and he sat down to show me. Basically taking three strands of cotton and wrapping it around a small football. After the ball is deflated to get it out and pumped up again for re-use. 

They are such a jolly family, all laughing and joking as they work. Clearly happy to be busy. He told us normally he has regular orders from a French business but since the virus no re-order coming. Our order is about a container load and it will keep them occupied for about two months. They were really grateful for the business and viewed it as a gift from God.