PAPER MAKING

Using a paper method taught to me in an induction I followed the steps to create paper using torn pieces of recycled cartridge paper and flowers petals and lichen. This is to experiment with combining materials into the paper, I am hoping the petals will bleed slightly to create a watercolour like effect on the paper.

Paper making:
Ripping paper first
Blitz with a almost full jug of water,
Aim to make 8 jugs couple glugs of pva glue,
Lay folded jay cloths on the tray on the wood
Use the frame and submerge in pulp and drain until water Goes
Lay on the stack- push down to release- jay cloths between each layer
Pressing it- 4 washers on bottom 4 washers on top with bolts
Press with 4 washers and nuts
Screw alternate corners leave to drain for half an hour
Once finished sieve pulp in a bucket over the sink
Unscrew and peel layers of cloth off, hang in dark room on cloth

problems I came across: I struggled to maintain a consistency that created uniform sheets, i discovered towards the end of my paper making this was down to the added ingredients such as flowers ect, making the paper harder to release from the frame causing sections to rip and tear. I know this isn’t the best result to have had and I was a little disappointed with the amount of complete sheets I produced. but i am still satisfied with the paper i produced, I like the authenticity of the inconsistency, this may be interesting contents to a book? i’m not striving for perfection but I feel the more I practice the  better the quality of the paper will be.

I want to continue making papers and explore using alternative materials for the paper and more traditional ingredients, this project gives me the perfect opportunity to explore the possibilities of paper making and then binding into books.