Inexpensive, but usable paper molds

You can use any sort of wooden frame to create a simple yet functional paper mold – canvas stretcher, old picture frames, etc.

Materials you need:

  • Wooden frame, or two wooden frames for a mold and a deckle.
  • a piece of hardware cloth the size of the frame
  • Metal window screen
  • a staple gun with staples (other methods of fastening the hardware cloth and screen to the frame could work, as well — such as hot glue, brads etc.
  • duct tape

Mold assembly is pretty basic. There are some videos link below with a couple of methods.

Other sources for building molds

Other items for western-style sheet formation

I will demonstrate this method on Zoom.

  • Non fusible interfacing such as Pellon can be used for “felts” for sheet formation. Visit a fabric store or Walmart to find this. The slightly thicker stuff is best, but the thin will work. Source
  • Layer damply wet “felts” then couched sheets of pulp, then another felt, as many layers of these as you want between two pieces of vanished plywood or other flat boards that resist water to build a “post” for pressing.
  • If you do not have a paper press, you can use C-clamps, or simple drive your car over the boards.
  • Go to the Papermaking Resources page for additional information on methods, supplies, and ideas.
  • A good source for papermaking in general (listed on the page linked above) is the Papermaker’s Companion. It is out of print, but there are used copies and the Kindle version available.