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MAKEWORKS
Papers/Bamboo Paper
Plant FiberAdvancedSafety: High Risk

Bamboo Paper

The original Chinese paper fiber — slow to process, beautiful results.

Texture
Smooth, pale gold, very strong
Yield
≈ 4 sheets per young culm

Bamboo culms are soaked weeks, cooked in lye, beaten, and pulled into thin strong sheets.

  • ▸The original Chinese paper fiber, made since the Han dynasty.
  • ▸Long process — but yields archival, lightfast paper.
  • ▸Young green culms break down faster than mature ones.

Steps

  1. 01

    Split culms; soak in water 1–2 weeks until soft.

  2. 02

    Cook 4–6 hours in lye or washing soda.

  3. 03

    Rinse thoroughly and beat fibers on a stone with a mallet.

  4. 04

    Blend briefly to break apart remaining bundles.

  5. 05

    Pull thin sheets, couch, press, and dry slowly.

Materials
4
  • — Young bamboo shoots / culms (greener = easier)
  • — Wood ash lye or strong washing soda
  • — Mallet and stone
  • — Mould & deckle

Safety

High Risk

Involves caustics, acids, or open flame. Full PPE and trained supervision recommended.

Hazards identified
  • Caustic alkali — burns skin, eyes, lungs
Quick checklist
  • ☐Wear chemical splash goggles and nitrile gloves
  • ☐Add alkali to water, never water to alkali
  • ☐Keep vinegar nearby to neutralize spills
  • ☐Work in a ventilated area; keep food and drink out of the studio
  • ☐Read each material's safety data sheet (SDS) before starting
  • ☐Have water, soap, and a first-aid kit accessible

Heuristic guidance derived from listed materials. Always consult each material's safety data sheet (SDS) and a qualified instructor before attempting.

Notes

Traditional Chinese papermaking fiber — used since the Han dynasty. Patience-heavy but archival.