Hand Papermaking
Learning Opportunities
INTRODUCTION to JAPANESE PAPERMAKING
Handmade paper made in Japan, washi, is well known for its translucency, strength, and absolute beauty. Learn how washi is made using both a Japanese mould (sugeta) and western mould adaptations. We will explore some of the best suited fibers, their preparation, sheet formation, decorative options, and drying techniques. We will also discuss papermaking history and the development of Japanese papermaking technique. In this one day class, you will make a lovely batch of paper and gain new understanding into the unique and complex characteristics inherent in this most revered form of paper.
PULP PAINTING
In this hands-on papermaking class, we will work with pigmented pulps as medium for painting. We’ll form sheets of paper, design imagery and visual structure, work with paint brushes, squeeze bottles of color, pulp pouring, wet collage and laminations.
This is a creative and colorful class offering a terrific introduction to more of what hand papermaking has to offer for your work.
INTRODUCTION to HAND PAPERMAKING
Explore hand papermaking with plant fibers and recyclable pulp alternatives. We’ll explore tools and equipment, sheet forming, decorative techniques, use of pigment for color, pressing and drying options, and ways in which this can easily be done in a kitchen or home studio space.
PLANTS to PAPERMAKING (local plants – invasive & non-invasive)
We often think that handmade paper can only be made with fiber sourced from cotton, linen, or hemp. But there is an enormous amount of enthusiastic experimentation going on all over the world to prepare pulp for hand papermaking from all sorts of vegetation, including invasive plants. In this class we compare plant varieties and the steps involved in their assessment and transformation from raw fiber to finished sheets of paper. This is a great way to learn about the basics of papermaking processes and to begin seeing your back yard plants and weeds as a source of cellulose fiber.
FORMS IN LUMINOUS PAPER
Enjoy a few hours immersed in hand papermaking to create three-dimensional forms. We’ll develop forms working with sheets of varying thicknesses and pulp varieties and types of pulp, apply these to shapes and structures using a few of techniques and useful additives. Explore the delicate interplay between paper and light while discovering how translucency, texture, and color can affect the resonant aesthetic of each creation. Be prepared to take home a few light-inspired forms and too many new project ideas.
BOOKS in BASIC
Book forms and the tools and techniques involved can be wonderfully elaborate or surprisingly simple. In this class, learn some essential basics to complete one sweet book by day’s end. From the techniques used in making this book, you will gain and understanding with which to tackle other book structures that may intrigue you as well as acquiring a new appreciation of just how intricate and precise are the works of master bookbinders and conservators. This class will open your mind and ability level to the infinite and fun world of book binding.