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MAKEWORKS
Papers/Milkweed Stem Paper
Plant FiberModerateSafety: Low Risk

Milkweed Stem Paper

The bast fiber of milkweed rivals flax — and it grows in ditches.

Texture
Silky, pale, long-fiber
Yield
≈ 4 sheets per bundle of stems

Winter milkweed stalks are split for their bast fiber, cooked, and pulled into silky sheets.

  • ▸Indigenous North American cordage and textile fiber.
  • ▸Long luminous bast rivals flax in strength.
  • ▸Best harvested after winter has dried the stems.

Steps

  1. 01

    Crack stalks open and peel the long outer bast fiber.

  2. 02

    Cook fiber 2 hours in washing-soda water.

  3. 03

    Rinse, then beat or pulse briefly — keep fibers long.

  4. 04

    Pull thin sheets, couch, press, dry under weight.

Materials
4
  • — Dry winter milkweed stalks (Asclepias)
  • — Washing soda
  • — Mallet
  • — Blender + mould & deckle

Safety

Low Risk

Mostly hand tools and inert materials. Standard studio hygiene applies.

Quick checklist
  • ☐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

Indigenous North American cordage fiber. Strong, soft, slightly luminous when held to light.