DIY: Paper Pulp
Paper Pulp: A Versatile Material for Your DIY Projects
Have you ever wondered what to do with all those old newspapers piling up at home? I've got the solution for you! Paper pulp is a versatile material that can be easily made at home using those newspapers, water, and glue. You can even use shredded paper from a shredder because who said paper can't get a second chance?
Why Choose Paper Pulp?
Paper pulp is an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials like clay, concrete, or plastic. You can mold it into any shape – from bowls to planters, and even mini-sculptures. It’s easy to color or paint to match any project you have in mind. And best of all, it’s lightweight and easy to handle, so your hands will thank you.
Popular Uses for Paper Pulp
What can you make with paper pulp? The only limit is your imagination! Create unique bowls, planters, wall decorations, and even sculptures. Its versatility and affordability make it the perfect material for anyone looking to add a bit of creativity and eco-friendliness to their life.
How to Make Paper Pulp
Making paper pulp is as easy as pie. All you need are old newspapers (or shredded paper), water, and glue. Soak the paper in water for a few hours until it breaks down into a mushy pulp. Then, add a bit of glue, mix it up, and voilà! You have paper pulp ready to be molded into any shape. Easy as pie, right?
Time to Get Crafty!
Paper pulp is an excellent material for creating unique and eco-friendly crafts. Its affordability, versatility, and eco-friendliness make it a top choice for DIY enthusiasts and environmentally conscious individuals. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those old newspapers and give them a new life in the form of amazing DIY projects!
Watch my full video:
Here's what you'll need:
Old paper, newspaper (but not glossy paper)
Spoon
Blender
Bowl
Cheese cloth
PVA glue
Instructions:
Collect paper from a shredder or use newspaper. If using newspaper, tear into small pieces. Soak the paper in water for a few hours or overnight.
Using a blender, blend the paper with water until it becomes a pulp.
Transfer the pulp into a bowl lined with cheese cloth.
Using your hands or a fork, break up any clumps in the pulp.
Add PVA glue to the pulp until it reaches the consistency of ground meat.
Once the pulp has dried, it will be rougher in texture, similar to concrete. If you want a smoother finish, try using paper mache.
Updated Method for Making Paper Pulp
After a lot of practice and refinement, I've improved the process of making paper pulp, especially when I need a larger quantity. Here's the new, more efficient method I use:
For larger batches, I drain the pulp on a cloth placed over a large plastic container. I use a regular kitchen dish towel and secure it to the edges of the container with clothespins or large foldback clips(the kind used to hold large stacks of paper together in an office). The cloth should be slightly taut.
Once the paper is blended into a pulp in the mixer, I pour it onto the cloth, allowing the water to drain slowly. During this time, I occasionally stir the pulp to help the water drain more effectively.
This improved technique has significantly streamlined the process, making it easier and faster to produce large amounts of paper pulp.