Science Experiments on Making Paper

Fibers

• Paper is made from a variety of fibers, ranging from shredded fabric to recycled newspapers. For scientific purposes, using different fibers to create paper will demonstrate the results each type of fiber creates. Paper is made by adding a binding agent such as glue or water to fibers and then pressing the fibers to remove the water content. Process fibers by shredding them with scissors or by hand and macerating with a blender or food processor. Use larger fibers and smaller fibers, and then study the different textures of the fibers and the variations in the types of paper each make.

Mixtures

• Different mixes of materials and binding agents create different results ranging from bumpy decorative paper used for cards to new recycled sheets to write on. Experiment with different combinations of fibers and water content. Try mixing thick shredded card stock with a thin water and glue binder. Make a second combination of shredded newspaper, water and a tablespoon of starch. Make notes on the compounds used and compare the two results. Test them for how well they hold ink, hold together or form into paper.

Additions

• Additions to paper can be for durability, to make the paper more ink resistant or as a decorative option. Starch added to paper keeps the ink from sinking into the fibers as much and spreading or bleeding. A thin white glue added to the water binder makes the paper more durable. Decorative additions like bits of construction paper for color flecks, shredded pieces of tissue paper laid on top of the sheet or string fibers make the paper surface more interesting. Create several different kinds of paper and make notes on how each texture reacts, how easily each sheet of paper forms, and the results of the creations.

The Process

• The method of making paper is an experiment in itself. Shredding and preparing the fibers, adding the binder and pressing and drying the paper are steps that can be taken one at a time and studied. Take notes and make observations, compare the results and determine which papers are more successful in each area such as writing, durability and aesthetics. Put the paper to use as craft or writing tools and make observations on the results.