DIY Papermaking at Home

with Sophia Hotzler
Wednesday, May 1; 6–8:30pm CT

Want to make paper at home but not sure where to start? In this virtual workshop, learn the process of making paper pulp with repurposed paper (newspapers, computer printouts, and artwork—old drawings or prints that you are ready to part with). Make your own basic mould and deckle with supplies that can be found in your home or at a local store. Learn how to set up a basic at-home papermaking space and gain fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to confidently explore and experiment with pulp and paper. This workshop will be part lecture and part guided demonstration. Participants are encouraged to follow along with the demonstrations to make their own pulp, mould, and deckle, but it is not required. There may be time to pull a few sheets of paper during the workshop before learning how to properly empty the vat and store leftover pulp for future use.

All skill levels welcome
Certificate: 2.5 hours, Category A or D; fulfills requirement for Core papermaking

$61/participant (10% discount for MCBA members)
$31 for BIPOC/Financial scholarship participants (10% discount for MCBA members)
MCBA offers two scholarship types for workshops—Financial Hardship Scholarships and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Scholarships—to honor equity and increase access and artistic opportunities for those who have historically been underrepresented in the book arts. For individuals to whom these scholarships do not apply, register at the Adult rate and, if you are able, consider making a donation when registering to support MCBA’s efforts to make scholarships available.

What you’ll need to participate
Tech requirements: For this participatory virtual workshop we recommend joining on a laptop or desktop computer with a camera and microphone, if possible. You will receive step-by-step instructions for downloading Zoom (it’s free!) and accessing the workshop online approximately 2 days before the workshop’s start date.
Materials: You are responsible for sourcing your own materials from the materials list. You are welcome to reach out to teaching artists with questions about materials in advance of the workshop (contact information is listed on the materials list). 

Registration for this workshop has closed. Add your name to the wait list and you’ll be contacted if another section of the workshop is scheduled.