You can make paper from scrap paper using a simple recycling process. Here's how:
Steps to Making Recycled Paper
-
Gather Your Materials:
- Scrap paper (newspaper, office paper, etc.)
- Blender
- Water
- Felt or absorbent towel
- Shallow container (tub or tray)
- Picture frame (optional, for creating a mold)
- Screen (optional, if not using a picture frame)
-
Prepare the Paper Pulp:
- Tear the scrap paper into small pieces.
- Soak the paper pieces in water for at least 30 minutes to soften them.
-
Blend the Pulp:
- Add the soaked paper and some fresh water to the blender. The ratio should be roughly 1 part paper to 2 parts water.
- Blend the mixture until it forms a smooth pulp.
-
Form the Paper Sheet:
- Fill the shallow container with water.
- If using a picture frame, stretch the screen across it to create a mold.
- Pour some of the paper pulp into the container, distributing it evenly.
- Gently lift the screen (or picture frame with screen) from the water, allowing excess water to drain. Shake gently to distribute the fibers evenly.
- Carefully flip the screen/frame onto a piece of felt or towel.
-
Remove Excess Water:
- Press down gently on the back of the screen to remove more water. You can use a sponge or another piece of felt/towel to absorb the water.
-
Release the Paper:
- Carefully peel back the screen to reveal the newly formed paper sheet on the felt.
-
Dry the Paper:
- Place another piece of felt or towel on top of the paper sheet.
- Apply pressure (e.g., with books) to remove more water.
- Let the paper dry completely. This can take several hours or even a day, depending on the humidity. You can speed up the process with a fan or by placing the paper in a warm, dry location.
-
Finishing Touches (Optional):
- Once the paper is completely dry, you can add color, designs, or other decorations. You can also iron the paper on a low setting to flatten it.
Essentially, you're breaking down existing paper, mixing it with water to form a slurry, and then reforming that slurry into new sheets of paper. This process effectively recycles paper into "paper papers".
