Introduction to Papermarking
$150.00 | 10AM-4PM | All materials included
Have you ever wanted to try making your own paper? Learn how in this full-day immersive workshop great for beginners–no experience necessary and all materials provided.
In the morning, you’ll learn the science behind handmade paper, discover the types of fiber and other materials that can be used for papermaking, and see how pulp is prepared. Then you’ll get to form sheets in the western tradition and learn how to pigment fiber. In the afternoon you’ll try a few techniques such as using stencils and watermarks, as well as embedding and adding inclusions such as flower petals, and then have open time to experiment and make sheets for your own use in a range of sizes and out of a variety of fibers including cotton, abaca, sisal, and hemp.
We will work broadly as a community in the paper mill in shared vats and in shared responsibilities such as loading the dry box and cleaning up. You’ll be able to pick up your sheets after a 3-day drying period during our open to the public hours (Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays).
No prior experience is necessary, and all materials are included. Appropriate for ages 14 and up. Sonia Farmer will use her teaching experiences accumulated for over a decade to make accessible the materials, tools, and techniques you'll use to bring everything together into a stack of beautiful handmade paper of your own.
Here’s a breakdown of the day:
10am-12:30pm
Papermaking origins and process, raw materials, hands-on beginner sheet forming and pigmenting
12:30-1pm: break for lunch
While lunch is not included, we have a kitchenette with a fridge, microwave and kettle for your convenience, as well as nearby food options
1pm-3pm
Examples of techniques such as embedding and stencils, and open experimentation time to create unique paper samples.
3pm-4pm
Pressing paper, loading the dry box, and community clean up.
Things to Know
Making paper can get wet and messy! Though you’ll be provided a waterproof apron, make sure you wear comfortable clothing and waterproof shoes with good grip for wet environments.
Please note this class can be physically demanding, requiring standing for long periods, and crouching or bending down frequently. Though we will spend most of our time indoors in air-conditioning, we may spend some time outside. Rest areas and shaded areas are available when needed.
This full-day workshop costs $150.00 per person and includes all materials. When you register here, you’ll receive an email with payment instructions. Direct deposit, card payment, PayPal, or Zelle all accepted, as well as cash paid ahead of the workshop date at our location (open to the public Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays).