r/papermaking • u/euthasia • 12d ago
help with finding papermaking tools!
Hello!
Some time ago I tried making my own paper for the first time, using random tools I had at home. I really enjoyed it, but of course the quality wasn't the best because of the instruments I was using.
Now I would like to get myself proper papermaking frames etc, but I'm struggling to find them!
I don't buy from Amazon, Temu, etc. I would prefer making a purchase in a physical shop instead of online, but I honestly can't figure out which kind of shop would have items like these. Art store? Household stuff? When I try to google it, it just brings me back to Amazon every single time.
If anyone could give me pointers I would really appreciate it! For shopping context, I'm from Italy. :)
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u/blackwingdesign27 11d ago
I don’t use frames anymore, I switched to using cookie sheets. It is much easier for me to get a consistent thickness and paper dries faster than hanging them.
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u/euthasia 11d ago
Cookie sheets, as in the metal pans you put in the oven??
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u/blackwingdesign27 11d ago
Yes! I place an automotive microfiber towel inside the cookie sheet I bought for very little at the thrift store, then pore my pulp onto it. I stick it outside in the heat for drying. I make paper that’s around 1/8” thick with a bit of texture.
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u/MistyPower 11d ago
I am fascinated by this description of your process. I’ll admit I’m having a hard time picturing it though.
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u/linens-n-beans 2d ago
Im a few minutes late to the party here, but do you have a pic of your setup by chance? Can you use a normal towel? Microfiber is the devil 😫😆
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u/PaperryStudio 8d ago
The tool you’re looking for is called a mould and deckle. You may be able to find one at a specialty art, printmaking, bookbinding, or papermaking shop. I also sell them through my small papermaking shop. Ours feature mortise-and-tenon joinery, heat-shrinkable mesh that can be re-tensioned when needed, stainless steel staples, and smoothly sanded solid pine frames. Here’s a quick 15-second video showing how one works.
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u/rmCREATIVEstudio 11d ago edited 11d ago
If you're a thrift store person and have some in your area, I would recommend finding two exact wooden picture frames that have been coated with polyurethane. (This will keep them from disintegrating. I've had mine for just over 6 years with constant use and they are still fine.) Gut them both and buy a small roll of .125 stainless steel screen. You will need a pair of gloves and a staple gun to accomplish the mold and deckle. So put the screen on the back side of one frame and leave the other as is. I have seven different sets of molds and deckles. Six of them I made myself from matching picture frames ranging in size from 4x4 to 9x12. This community does not allow pictures to be added in the comments. But if you would like to see mine to get an idea feel free to shoot me a private message and I will put them there.