Leaf Embedded Background Paper


Playing around once again with paper pulp to create an interesting paper that can be used as a background for a photo or special verse.


A pile of leftover white card stock scraps from another project, were used to make the pulp for the paper.  Because the scraps were from a heavier paper, I used fringe scissors that cut  paper into thin shreds then soaked them in water before placing them into a blender to make pulp.  The pulp, along with some water, was then placed into a squeeze bottle. NOTE: The blended pulp, along with water, can be poured into a bowl and a baster can be used to squeeze the pulp onto the screen.  To form the sheet of paper, use the large dip handmold and place it on a large cookie sheet with a lip.  Squeeze the paper pulp onto the screen - keep layering the pulp onto the screen, covering the entire surface.  NOTE: I didn't worry too much about it being a bit thicker in places. For a background paper I wanted some uneven areas. 



Remove the top wooden deckle frame from the pulp.  Place the gray screen over the pulp and press with sponges to remove some of the water. Before pressing out more of the water, place dried leaves onto the surface in any desired pattern.  NOTE: Use a single layer of leaves (the small fern pieces had to be removed because they would not stay in place). Replace the gray screen or use another paper making screen and press again to embed the leaves into the paper and also removing more water from the sheet.  NOTE: If no extra blue paper making screen is available, use a sheet of waxed paper or parchment paper under the gray screening to press.  Continue to process the sheet of paper just like any other sheet.  Instead of ironing the sheet to dry, place the sheet between layers of cotton fabric and couching sheets and weight it with heavy books till dry.  NOTE:  Check  after several hours and change fabric and sheets if needed to help the drying process.

Use the finished sheet as a background in a floating clip frame for a special photo or stamped or handwritten verse.

For supplies and information go to the Arnold Grummer website.  Use this coupon code for your order this month: OWL20

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