Handmade paper vs machine made paper

What is Handmade Paper and how is it made?

Handmade paper is the manual process of paper making typically carried out by

an individual. Handmade paper is a single layer of fibres that have been

entwined. These are held together by cellulose fibres through natural bonding

properties. The mould is covered using a flat frame known as a deckle. This is

used to contain the run-off from the wet pulp. The mould is then shaken to

evenly distribute the fibres, following which excess water gets drained out.

What is Machine-made Paper and how is it made?

Machine-made paper is made using industrial processes and machinery. To

create paper, the pulp is prepared either chemically or mechanically.

Subsequently, the pulp is processed, flattened, and dried with the use of a

machine to yield the final product – paper.

Handmade Paper vs Machine-made Paper

One of the most distinct differences is that there are over 25 steps that are

carried out to create a single sheet of handmade paper. The process of

handmade paper making is not a continuous process and only one sheet of

paper can be created at a single time. On the other hand, the machine-made paper

is a continuous mechanised process that can yield large sheets of paper rolls at

the end of the manufacturing line.

Additionally, in the case of handmade paper, natural variations in texture and

pattern occur and should be considered as unique character traits. There may

also be slight variations in paperweight and also minor imperfections or flecks

on the surface. In contrast, there is very little variation and discrepancy when it

comes to machine-made paper and you can generally expect that every batch

created will be similar to the other.

In the current scenario, consumers are leaning towards more unique and varied

forms of paper, which handmade paper offers.

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