How to Make Recycled Paper – Modern Paper Art

One of the quickest ways to change out your space is by swapping out your art work!

We’re always looking for affordable ways to create new art work!

In an effort to waste less and do better for our planet, we decided to collect our paper scraps and trash and turn it into something wonderful!

How to Make Recycled Paper – Modern Paper Art

Materials

• Scrap Paper – cardstock, wrapping paper, printer paper, envelopes, any paper, all paper!

• Two Matching Wooden Frames

• Window Screen

• Staple Gun

• Large Tub

• Sponges

• Blender

• Towels

• Hot Water

• Spoon

• Fabric

• Large Frame

Build a mold and deckle –

• Remove glass and backing from the 2 matching frames and cut the window screen to the size of frame.

• Staple to the screen to the edge of one frame, pulling tightly but not too tight to warp the screen.

Prep paper –

• Rip up or shred like colored scrap paper, remove any staples or plastic. Use Junk mail, envelopes, wrapping paper, napkins paper towels.

• Two handfuls of paper makes one sheet.

Blend –

• Add lightest paper into a blender with hot water, let sit for a few minutes to soften then blend until a pulp.

• Make another batch with darker shades of paper to create color blocking. 

Tips-you can mix in dried plants/flowers after blended to add texture. Glitter, dye, food coloring for color. Essential oils for scent

Dip –

• Fill a large bin with warm water and lay out towels. Tip-The amount of water/slurry added to the tub will determine the thickness of the paper.

• Add in the slurry and stir well until mixed in evenly. 

• Hold frame at a 45-degree angle and submerge into the tub. Once frame is fully submerged, tilt it so it’s level and slowly raise it above the water. Tilt the frame from side to side so the pulp lies flat.

Press and lay –

• Allow the water to drain out then lightly press a sponge over the pulp. Wring out sponge and repeat. 

• Flip frame over with the pulp side down and lay on the towel, in the place you’d like it.

• Press sponge on top of the screen, wring and repeat.

• Lift frame slowly. Tip-if the paper does not come off the screen flick the frame with your finger to help tap it out. 

-Repeat the process until done with that color.

Watch how it all came together on HGTV handmade!