Recycled Paper
Recycled Paper
Recycled Paper
MATERIALS:
Paper to reuse
Two portrait's frame of the same size
One net (mosquito type)
Duct tape
nails
A stapler
A hammer
A bucket in which the two frames fit
A blender or a mortar
Water
An old bed sheet that can be made of cotton or polyester
An atomizer
A sponge
Something heavy to press the paper (you can use some books)
A tablecloth or something similar to cover work surfaces
PROCESS
Prepare Strainer:
The strainer is composed of a mold and a frame. It will be the structure that will
shape the paper. In this case, portrait’s frames are used, but if you dare you can
build your own, since it is simply rectangular frames of the same size.
If you are going to make one, be sure to reinforce all the joints with nails or screws
of stainless steel or bronze and stick them with some adhesive. It is important that
it is resistant so that it does not break during work.
The best materials to use are mahogany wood (no knots or warped or twisted
areas) and copper or aluminum mesh (the last one is more economical). It is ideal
to have between 5 and 10 holes per square centimeter. Woven nylon or silk nets
and mosquito nets can also be used, but they will have to have more holes per
square centimeter.
The different meshes will give different characteristics to recycled paper. The
thicker ones will create leaves of that thickness, while the thin ones will allow to
make more delicate papers.
If you are going to reuse an old frame that you found in your home, remove all
traces of paint or varnish beforehand to prevent them from falling off and ruining
the paper.
Then, place the frame on a flat surface, with the smooth side facing up. Place a
piece of fiberglass or mesh of the same size on it. Use the nails and staples to
attach it to the wood. Make sure there are no wrinkles. Cut the excess mesh and
use the packing tape to cover the edges.
Do this with just one of the frames. Then, cut two pieces of the bed sheet of a size
that cover it completely.