natural paper making

On a trip through India I stumbled across a wonderful man who shared with me the process of making natural paper and the fun possibilities of embossing and using this paper for different creative means.

This is not only an empowering project to learn how to make our own paper but it involves the recycling of old papers, newspaper and scraps which is a necessary process and allows us to begin to expand our knowledge in how we can use already existing resources to make new resources.

There are many reasons for why this is a great technique which is why I feel a calling to talk about its beneficial aspects for our lives as well as the practical aspect of how to do it.

Environmental Sustainability:

Making paper from natural and recycled materials reduces the demand for virgin pulp from trees. This helps conserve forests, which play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change.

Waste Reduction:

Utilizing recycled paper or materials that would otherwise be discarded as waste reduces the overall amount of waste in landfills. It promotes a circular economy by reusing resources.

Lower Environmental Impact:

The production of natural paper typically has a lower environmental impact compared to conventional paper made from virgin pulp. It requires less energy and water, contributing to a more eco-friendly process.

Personal Creativity:

Making natural paper allows for creative expression. You can experiment with various natural fibers, colors, and textures, resulting in unique and personalized paper creations.

Educational Value:

The process of making natural paper can be an educational and hands-on experience. It provides insights into the paper-making process, environmental awareness, and the importance of sustainable practices.

Customization:

Natural paper can be customized according to personal preferences. You can experiment with different materials, colors, and additives to achieve specific textures and appearances.

Artistic Expression:

Natural paper is a versatile medium for artistic expression. It can be used for drawing, painting, printmaking, and various craft projects. The textured surface of handmade paper adds character to artistic creations.

Unique Characteristics:

Handmade natural paper often has unique characteristics, including irregularities, fibers, and imperfections. These features add charm and individuality to each sheet.

Community Building:

Engaging in paper-making activities, especially as part of a community project, fosters a sense of community and collaboration. It encourages people to come together for a shared creative endeavor.

Reduced Chemical Use:

Making natural paper often involves fewer chemicals than industrial paper production. This reduces the environmental impact associated with the use of bleaches and other chemicals used in traditional papermaking.

Encourages Sustainable Practices:

By making natural paper, individuals and communities actively participate in sustainable practices. It promotes a mindset of resourcefulness and environmental responsibility.

Local Resource Utilization:

Natural paper-making can involve using locally available materials, contributing to the utilization of regional resources and supporting local economies.

Therapeutic Benefits:

The process of making natural paper can be therapeutic and meditative. It allows individuals to disconnect from digital screens, engage with tactile materials, and focus on a creative and mindful activity.

Making natural paper aligns with principles of sustainability, creativity, and environmental responsibility. It provides a hands-on experience, encourages resourcefulness, and allows individuals to contribute to a more eco-friendly and conscious way of living.

how to do

A step by step process as taught in this encountering in the village of Cochin.

Materials Needed:

For Making Natural Paper:

Recycled Paper or Pulp: Old newspapers, cardboard, or scrap paper can be used. Alternatively, you can purchase paper pulp.

Water: For soaking and blending the paper.

Blender: To pulp the paper.

2 Mesh Screens or Wooden Frames: For forming the paper sheets.

Cloth or Felt Sheets: To absorb excess water.

Large Basin or Tub: For water immersion.

Sponges or squeegie: For pressing and drying the paper.

For Embossing:

Embossing Tools: Wooden or metal embossing tools with various designs. Can be a professional press but can also be done with a pin roller.

Soft Pad or Felt: To place behind the paper during embossing.

Pencil or Tracing Tools: For drawing or tracing your design onto the paper.

Steps:

Making Natural Paper:

Prepare the Paper Pulp:

Tear the recycled paper into small pieces and soak them in water until they become soft. Use a blender to pulp the paper into a smooth consistency.

Preparing the Frames:

Get a large basin or tub. Place the screen inside of it and fill it with water until it is just covered. Place the second mesh screen or wooden frame upside down so the screens are face to face.

Forming the Paper Sheets:

Taking the paper pulp in water, pour enough into the top screen to cover the whole base and allow the water to filter out of it. Lift it, and let the excess water drain off. This leaves a thin layer of pulp on the screen.

Press and Dry:

Place a cloth on the table. Take the top screen that has the pulp inside and place it on top of the cloth. Press out the pulp using squeegee to get an even transfer, and carefully lift the mesh screen. The pulp should have transferred through the mesh and on to the cloth.

Embossing:

Prepare the Paper:

Once your paper is formed and has taken shape, it's ready for embossing. It does not need to be fully dried, it can take the design better when still in the drying process.

Choose Your Design:

Select an embossing tool with a design of your choice. It can be anything natural, local or pre-made tool.

Emboss the Design:

Keeping the paper on the cloth or soft pad. Place your object you want to emboss onto the paper, add a thick layer of wood on top and applying gentle pressure.

Pressure:

You can apply pressure to the paper to transfer the embossed design in a few different ways. One way is with a press which apply’s an even amount of pressure across the whole sheet of paper. Another way is using a wooden slab with body weight or a rolling pin on top of cloth is another way to use the body pressure.

Experiment with Different Tools:

Explore various embossing tools to create different textures and patterns on the paper.

Allow the Paper to Set:

After embossing, allow the paper to rest and set for a short period.

The handmade, embossed natural paper is now ready to be used for various creative projects, such as cards, artwork, or decorative elements. This process allows you to personalize your paper with unique textures and designs while reusing materials and contributing to sustainable practices.