Recycled Office Paper
The simplest way in — junk mail, printer paper, old notebooks.
Tear up old paper, blend it with water into mush, scoop it out on a screen, and let it dry.
- ▸Paper is just plant fibers stuck together. Soaking and blending separates them again.
- ▸The screen drains the water and leaves a thin mat of fibers behind.
- ▸Pressing and air-drying turns that mat back into a sheet.
Steps
- 01
Tear paper into postage-stamp pieces and soak in warm water 1+ hour.
- 02
Blend a small handful at a time with plenty of water until smooth pulp forms.
- 03
Pour pulp into the tray with more water until it looks like thin milk.
- 04
Stir, then dip the mould vertically, level it underwater, and lift straight up.
- 05
Let water drain, flip pulp onto a damp felt (couch), press with a sponge to remove water.
- 06
Stack felts and sheets, weight them overnight, then peel and air-dry on a flat surface.
Materials7
- — A few sheets of used paper (avoid glossy/waxed)
- — Warm water
- — A blender
- — A mould and deckle (or two picture frames + window screen)
- — A flat tray larger than the mould
- — Felts or old cotton sheets for couching
- — Sponge
Safety
Mostly hand tools and inert materials. Standard studio hygiene applies.
- ☐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
Add a teaspoon of corn starch to the vat for a less-absorbent, easier-to-write-on sheet.