My Unique Handmade Paper/ Collage Artworks
Why does it take so long to create ?
It’s a multi level process
Step #1 Creating the pulp
My handmade paper and collage art comes in many forms, from full size art( 18” x 24” ) to gift cards. They are made from cotton, Abaca (banana fiber) and linen. I love thrift stores for finding linen fabric. Much of what I do is the “recycling” of materials.
Two inch squares of fabric are cut and put into a “Hollander” beater. This process breaks down fibers in water and hydrates them, creating pulp. Depending on the fiber, this process can take from 1 to 6+ hours.
Step #2 Forming a sheet of paper
Using a “mound and deckle” a sheet is “pulled” from a vat.
Once pulled and drained the sheet is couched (transferred) to a
woolen felt which has a wooden base board for support.
Step #3 Designing and creating
Designing and creating takes anywhere from 3 + hours, to even days. The pulp sheet is kept wet if needed and left over night. Many artworks have taken days because of the multiple processes/materials used. This time doesn’t include the hours of finding, collecting, pressing, and cutting inclusion items.
Step #4 Embossing and pressing the works
I choose embossing materials to enhance the work, thus creating special uniqueness. Such items may include: plastic placemats, artificial leaves, rubber mats, etc. Once the “wet” process is completed the work is covered with another felt and a piece of wood the size of the press’s platen – 24 x 30. My press for papermaking is a custom fabricated hydraulic one. After pressing which removes water and, sheets are placed into a “forced air” system for 36-48 hours to dry. Drawing is added after drying usually with Prismacolor pencils
Step #5
If an artwork is to be 3-Dimensional, the collage step is then begun. This may include hand sewing of beads, transfer of images, and the adding of objects. A shadow box, matting and framing completes each one.
ALL of my works are one of a kind and original.
It is truly a labor of love. My artwork has saved my life many times, as I live with deep depression and PTSD. In order to better understand this, please visit my second web site www.amothersjouney.net
I create my paper in the spring/summer but will consider commissions at anytime. You are welcome to contact me with your questions and/or requests via the Contact Page.
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram. I do not sell prints of larger artworks, and only limited prints of my greeting cards
Images: the Hollander beater, mould and deckle (my patented design), hydraulic press, 18”x24” artworks and studio/mill.
