Garden STEM at Home Papermaking

W E G R O W M I N D S , TO O.

i i W W W. D A LL A S A R B O R E T U M . O R G

PA P E R M A K I N G

B A C K G R O U N D Paper is a simple material. It is basically a mat of fibers, held together by their texture. These fibers can be cotton, flax, wood or even recycled paper. And its use is limitless.

Our Additional Resources, below, provide several methods for papermaking at home, and as you explore fibers more, your students or family are bound to explore other options, too!

i N S T R U C T i O N S 1. Soak shredded paper, egg carton or other fiber in water for at least an hour. More dense paper and cardboard will need a longer time to become pliable.

2. Use a blender or food processor to create a slurry.

3. On a tray or hard surface, scoop and spread the slurry across an old mesh window screen or plastic needlepoint canvas. Any material that keeps the paper pulp intact but allows the water to pass through will work. You could even use a loosely woven fabric.

4. Press the pulp to a desired thickness using a spoon or small piece of cardboard.

5. With a sponge, press to remove excess water.

6. Carefully dump the wet paper onto a towel for drying. This time will vary based on paper thickness, fiber and humidity. If paper curls upon drying, flatten with a heavy book.

7. Optional additions: Add dried flowers or seeds to the pulp mixture prior to drying.

A D D i T i O N A L R E S O U R C E S History of Paper https://www.paperrecycles.org/about/the-history-of-paper DIY Network Papermaking Instructions:https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/make-and-decorate/upcycling/how-to-make-paper

Instructables Papermaking Instructions:https://www.instructables.com/id/Homemade-Paper/

Explore the Make Your Own Paper Additional Resources Guide from PLT:https://www.plt.org/blog/activity/prek-8-activity-51-make-paper/

Explore the Paper Civilizations Additional Resources Guide from PLT:https://www.plt.org/blog/activity/prek-8-activity-93-paper-civilizations/

American Forest and Paper Association ‘How to Make Paper’ YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=6&v=ytqEuGQWtFA&feature=emb_logo

Paper: Paging Through History by Mark Kurlansky, ISBN: 0393239616

O B J E C T i V E : S T U D E N T S W i L L C R E AT E T H E i R O W N PA P E R , L E A R N i N G T H E S T E P S N E C E S S A R Y T O C R E AT E T H E i R O W N U S A B L E P R O D U C T.