Xinfu Dough Modeling

Xinfu Dough Modeling

　　Over the long course of folk tradition, Xinfu dough modeling has developed a complex production process and strict material requirements. The main ingredient is flour—premium high-quality flour must be used. During fermentation, it is appropriately cracked, and when kneading, raw flour is added in proportion to the fermented dough. The dough is then thoroughly mixed to achieve the right consistency, neither too soft nor too hard, ensuring that the steamed dough products neither crack nor shrink, but instead have a glossy, full appearance and lifelike shapes. The tools used are primarily the hands, supplemented by small combs, scissors, and small iron awls. Skilled homemakers use techniques such as rolling, cutting, pressing, and squeezing to create a variety of animals and colorful dough creations with vivid, realistic shapes that exude a natural charm. The forms and uses of Xinzhou dough modeling all vary according to the content of folk activities.