Handmade paper

I recently got three books from the library on making handmade paper, so I though I would try to make some of my own. First I had to make a frame out of wood, then I went to goodwill and bought a curtain, then I stapled the curtain to the frame. Next, I had to make another frame to fit over that. I then bought some felt, glue and a tub. I have been using shredded recycled paper. I get lots of it from working on maintanence :) I have five bags of shredded paper now, so I will be set for quite sometime. I blend the paper with water in a blender, then I add the pulp to the tub, and stirring in the glue, I make my pulp for the paper. Then I put the two frame one on top of the other into the tub and pull it out, draining as much water as possible. Then I lay it on a piece of wet felt, and repeat the process about four times. Next, I put one board on top and the other on the bottom, and I step on the boards, helping the paper to bond and retain its strength. Lastly, I take the paper out of the press and let it dry for about three days. I have made 12 sheets of paper, this past Saturday. I also put onion skins in the pulp to add an interesting texture.

I have been giving away the paper to friends, so they can write letters on them. If anyone would like some handmade paper, they can just e-mail me and I would be glad to give them some. I will be charging about 50 cents a piece, to cover the costs of the other supplies.