Creative Papermaking

About this course

Participants learn to prepare pulp using cotton linters and recycled rag paper, then make embossed, laminated, decorative and textured papers, including three-dimensional forms. The course combines tutor demonstrations with practical experimentation, supported by technical handouts and feedback. Learners can draw on Japanese papermaking and contemporary approaches while developing personal projects. Teaching includes one-to-one guidance, group work, discussion, show and tell, and group critique.

What you'll learn

• Prepare pulp using a professional Hollander Beater and domestic blender.
• Produce embossed, laminated, decorative and textured papers.
• Experiment with three-dimensional papermaking forms.
• Apply Japanese and contemporary papermaking approaches to personal experiments.

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for complete beginners as well as learners who want to extend their papermaking skills. Participation combines practical work with demonstrations, discussion, show and tell, group critique and tutor feedback, alongside individual projects.

• Complete beginners are encouraged to create reference samples.
• Returning students may be given additional exercises alongside set work.
• The course includes both group discussion and individual tutor guidance.

Before you go

• Learners should bring two packs of J cloths, a jam jar, a plastic box or strong plastic bag for damp paper sheets, newspapers, and a notebook and pen.
• The studio is on the second floor and has lift access.
• Learners with mobility support needs should contact Additional Learning Support or Art and Design administration before enrolling.