It might sound crazy but I have never had the opportunity to learn how to make my own paper. I surely knew the process, very close to the "papier mache" technique, I also like to use Nepalese and Lokta paper to cover my cardboard furniture, but I never made a single sheet of paper myself! The experience was very exciting.
I first watched videos and tutorials online. I saw people using newspaper, white paper, colored paper, even fabric, like denim! I also learned how to make my own mould. A month ago, I borrowed a book at the library, "The Organic Artist" by Nick Neddo and read a lot about sustainable art, how to make your own paint, ink, and of course paper... It's fascinating!
Materials
Old kitchen blender - (not the one to cook with!) I found one at Goodwill
Newspaper or used paper from your recycle garbage can - no plastic -
Water
Basin or vat
Mould and deckle - Make your own or buy a paper making kit
A large sponge
Cloth, towels or absorbent rug
A service tray
Instructions
Gather the material and set up your station!
Step #1
Shred/rip up the newspaper or discarded paper. Put a couple of handful in the blender - Cover with water - Blend it to create your pulp.
The color of the scraps will determine the final color of your paper - Experiment and have fun.
You can also add leaves or flowers and blend them with your scraps. It will add texture.
Step #2
Pour the pulp in your basin, filled with water. Mix it up with your hands - adjust the amount of pulp - the more you have the thicker your paper will be.
Step #3
Dive your mould and decker in the basin - Lift it out horizontally from the basin - Give it a quick shake - Let the water run off and drain.
I added some dry flowers, grass and leaves - Feel free also to add a drop of acrylic paint to give it some colors!
Step #4
Take off the decker /the frame from the mould - Flip the paper on a service tray or an absorbent rug/cloth - place the screen on top
Step #5
Absorb as much water as you can by pressing the sponge -
Step #6
Take off the screen delicately - at this point I like to press the paper again and again to absorb more and more water. You can also transfer the paper from a towel to another dry one.
Let dry your paper at least 24 hours.
You can create book marks, cards or journals!