About Papermaking:
Paper-making’s history dates back thousands of years, and little has changed in the process since the first records.
Fibre become Pulp
Raw fibre such as cotton is first prepared by soaking in water to expand the fibres. Vigorous beating with a 'Hollander beater' produces the raw pulp - a suspension of fibre in water. This is the basic material from which paper is made. A variety of natural fibres (abaca, flax, hemp) can be added as well to create different textures. A retention agent is added to insure that the pulp will accept colour.
Colour enhances Pulp
Previously prepared colours from earth pigments, water-soluble pigments, lusters are added to the pulp. This mixture is ‘sized’ to guarantee that its colour fast.Pouring and Couching
A specially designed framed screen ( mould and deckle) is dipped and pulled through the prepared pulp. The strained result is ‘couched’ or turned out on to a layer absorbent material. This is the beginning of a piece of paper! Another technique is to a pour the pulp directly into mould and deckle.
Forming and Drying
Extra colours and textures can be worked into the wet pulp at this time. Then it’s placed to dry in a special system,or it can be left air dry to retain it’s texture.
The result is natural hand-made paper, durable, free from toxic chemicals, and above all, beautiful to the touch and eye.
Everything is recycled. Leftovers are returned to the pulping process, or incorporated into new pieces.
It can take week from the initial concept, through the papermaking process to the final product ready for framing or mounting. From raw fibre to finished paper, Jenepher's touch transforms these simple materials into colourful and evocative works of art.