Dó Paper Revival
Reviving Vietnam’s Traditional Dó Paper Craft
Factbox
Location
Hanoi, Vietnam
Grant Period
Aug 2017 - Jul 2018
Grant Amount
USD 20,000
Beneficiaries
40 Families
Focus Area
Overview
Dó Paper Revival is a Vietnamese social enterprise initiative that preserves the centuries-old craft of traditional Dó paper-making while creating livelihoods for rural artisan communities. Through contemporary crafts, workshops, and cultural tourism, Zó Project reconnects modern audiences with one of Vietnam’s most distinctive cultural traditions.
Impact At A Glance
- Preservation of traditional Dó paper-making techniques dating back to the 13th century
- Livelihood opportunities created for artisan communities in northern Vietnam
- Development of Dó paper products such as notebooks, postcards, and paper gifts
- Cultural workshops and tourism experiences that promote appreciation of Vietnamese craft heritage
The Challenge
Rapid industrialisation in Vietnam is pushing traditional craft industries toward extinction.
As Vietnam’s economy modernises, many traditional trades and craft villages have steadily declined. Younger generations increasingly move toward urban jobs, leaving behind centuries-old crafts that once formed the backbone of rural livelihoods.
Dó paper-making, which dates back to the 13th century, is one such endangered craft. Traditionally used as a medium for artwork, calligraphy, and religious scrolls, Dó paper is produced through a complex handmade process involving up to 100 steps. Known for its durability and subtly textured surface, the craft once flourished in specialised villages. Today, only a handful of artisans remain, putting this unique cultural heritage at risk of disappearing.
The Solution
Zó Project is revitalising traditional Dó paper-making by transforming the craft into contemporary products and cultural experiences.
The social enterprise collaborates closely with traditional paper artisans to preserve the techniques of Dó paper production while introducing new product designs that appeal to modern audiences. By transforming the handmade paper into stationery, gifts, and art products, Zó Project creates a sustainable market for this historic craft.
Beyond product development, the initiative also introduces educational experiences that connect visitors to the craft’s origins. Paper-making workshops and cultural tours allow guests to learn about the intricate production process while exploring the rural landscapes and communities where the tradition began.
Through these activities, Zó Project helps younger generations rediscover the value of Dó paper while providing artisan communities with stable income opportunities and renewed cultural pride.
The Grant with AirAsia Foundation
AirAsia Foundation’s grant supports Zó Project in expanding production and strengthening the sustainability of the Dó paper craft ecosystem.
- Purchase equipment and tools to increase production of Dó paper and craft products
- Develop a plant nursery to secure sustainable raw materials and protect the Dó plant from extinction
- Train villagers in traditional paper-making, craft production, and tourism activities such as workshops and tours
These initiatives help strengthen the long-term sustainability of Dó paper-making while creating new livelihood opportunities for ethnic minority communities in northern Vietnam.
Gallery
The Organisation
Zó Project
Zó Project is a Vietnamese social enterprise founded in 2014 to preserve and revitalise traditional paper-making techniques through sustainable community-based production. The enterprise transforms handmade Dó paper into contemporary crafts such as notebooks, postcards, and paper gifts sold through its shop in Hanoi. Profits are reinvested into artisan communities, helping create livelihoods for ethnic minority villages while supporting cultural preservation and community-based tourism.
Team Leader
Tran Hong Nhung
Tran Hong Nhung founded Zó Project after visiting Duong O village, located about 40 kilometres northeast of Hanoi, where traditional Dó paper-making originated. During her visit, she discovered that only three families remained practising the craft, struggling to survive amid rapid urbanisation. Inspired to protect this endangered tradition, Nhung launched Zó Project to combine heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design. She continues to travel across northern Vietnam to study paper-making traditions and promote the revival of Dó paper.
Social Enterprise
