Karachi, Sindh
Chamakpatti
Chamakpatti is an urban craft that originated in Pakistan as an alternative to hand painting to decorate trucks. Truck owners in the region very proudly adorn their vehicles with art depicting their personal stories, colourful patterns, quotes and beliefs making it their cultural expression.
Chamakpatti, meaning shiny or reflective tape is now used to create designs on trucks as it's makes the trucks more visible at night than a hand painted one, cost less and is comparitively less time consuming. This unique art form is now also used to decorate household products and accessories.
While truck art is practiced across Pakistan, Karachi's truck stands and workshops are particularly famous for this craft, where chamakpatti is a key element in transforming trucks into vibrant, moving works of art.



Collapsible content
Craftsmanship and Techniques
1. Cutting Reflective Tape
Chamakpatti begins with colorful rolls of reflective adhesive tape. Artisans cut the tape into various shapes—such as triangles, diamonds, and stars—depending on the design they want to create.
2. Design Layout
The cut pieces are carefully arranged into intricate geometric patterns or floral motifs. Each design is planned to create a balanced, symmetrical look, often reflecting traditional folk designs seen in Pakistani truck art.
3. Application
Once the design is set, the tape pieces are carefully applied to objects such as trays, boxes, mirrors, or even furniture. The reflective nature of the tape allows the pieces to shimmer and shine, adding a bright, metallic pop to the design.
4. Layering for Depth
Multiple layers of chamakpatti may be applied to create depth and complexity in the design, with artisans often blending several colors to produce a vibrant, multi-dimensional effect.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Chamakpatti is deeply tied to Pakistan’s truck art tradition, which has long been a colorful expression of cultural pride and identity for drivers. These intricate designs tell stories of folklore, faith, and personal experiences, turning trucks into moving canvases. The craft has expanded beyond vehicles, finding its way into household décor and everyday items, bringing a touch of this expressive folk art into daily life.
Modern Relevance
Today, chamakpatti has grown beyond truck decoration, becoming a popular choice for home décor, accessories, and even fashion items. Its bright colors and reflective properties make it a playful yet impactful addition to modern interiors and personal accessories. Artisans now use chamakpatti to transform objects such as trays, photo frames, mirrors, and even bags, adding a distinctive touch of Pakistani folk art to contemporary spaces.
Shop Chamakpatti products
-
Truck Art Tray
Regular price Rs. 8,575Regular priceUnit price / per -
Straight Outta Karachi
Regular price Rs. 4,000Regular priceUnit price / per