Plunders of war, or just pulp fiction?
Plunders of war, or just pulp fiction?
Stories of how paper making started vary, but most agree it was the Chinese who started it. Some say it was a Chinese prisoner of war who gave the papermaking secret to the Arabs.
Centuries later, we’re still using old letters, newspapers, and rags to make paper the “old fashioned” way. The Chinese created sheets of paper using mulberry and other bast fibres along with fishnets, old rags and hemp waste. In fact, any fiber that has properties that can be changed by maceration or disintegration can be used to make paper. You can even use the lint from your dryer. Paper making is truly a recycler’s dream.
Instructor Lisa Louise Adams will teach how to do it at a workshop from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Volcano Art Center Niaulani Campus. Cost for the workshop is $70, plus a $25 supply fee. Attendees are asked to wear clothing that can get wet.
This workshop will teach you how to make the pulp, make your paper and embellish it with different elements and techniques. Adams will supply all the materials you’ll need. This is definitely a handy skill to have. Just think: This year’s Christmas cards or party invitations could be handmade.
Adams is a painter, potter, printmaker, bookmaker, papermaker, jeweler, poet and quilter who lives in Volcano. For over 20 years her work has been displayed in numerous invitational and juried exhibitions locally, nationally and internationally. You can find her working out of her Spiral Triangle Studios and teaching art in schools and workshops throughout Hawaii. Sign up at www.volcanoartcenter.org.