What is Handmade Paper and how is it made?
Handmade paper is the manual process of paper making typically carried out by an individual. Handmade paper is a single layer of fibres that have been entwined. These are held together by cellulose fibres through natural bonding properties. The mould is covered using a flat frame known as a deckle. This is used to contain the run-off from the wet pulp. The mould is then shaken to evenly distribute the fibres, following which excess water gets drained out.
What is Machine-made Paper and how is it made?
Machine-made paper is made using industrial processes and machinery. To create paper, the pulp is prepared either chemically or mechanically. Subsequently, the pulp is processed, flattened, and dried with the use of a machine to yield the final product – paper.
Handmade Paper vs Machine-made Paper
Handmade paper differs significantly from machine-made paper in its creation process and characteristics. The production of handmade paper involves over 25 distinct steps, with each sheet crafted individually, making it a non-continuous process. In contrast, machine-made paper is produced through a continuous, mechanized process that yields large rolls of paper efficiently. Handmade paper is known for its natural variations in texture and pattern, often seen as unique character traits. It may also exhibit slight variations in weight and minor surface imperfections or flecks. On the other hand, machine-made paper offers uniformity, with minimal variation between batches. In today’s market, consumers increasingly value the uniqueness and variety that handmade paper provides.
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