Intro to Making Handmade (Recycled) Paper for Kids (Grades K-8)

Imagine taking junk mail and scrap papers and turning them into beautiful handmade sheets, perfect for making cards, books, and invitations. You can even turn old homework assignments into a new journal!

In this intro class for kids, we'll focus on Western-style papermaking. We'll briefly discuss the basics of choosing the best paper for recycling and the tools required for making paper (including inexpensive and easy-to-find options). And then we'll go over the process with plenty of time left for experimentation. We'll have a few different colors of pulp to try out, as well as some fun shapes to add to your pages. **The paper will not be ready to take home that day. Participants can arrange a pickup time or to have their paper shipped for an additional fee.

Making handmade paper is generally a relaxing process, but be prepared to have your hands in water for most of the session. Dress appropriately for getting a bit wet. Also, while the paper sizes we'll be working with don't require a lot of physical exertion, please expect to spend some time on your feet. Kids with sensory issues may have a harder time with this activity. Paper pulp sticks to your hands. If this is a concern, you can try medical gloves (preferably non-latex). Unfortunately, we do not have youth sizes in gloves available. 

This class is geared toward kids from kindergarden through 8th grade who can follow basic directions and work with some independence. If your child may need some extra help staying on task, especially younger kids, we encourage you to stay at no additional cost and have some fun experimenting with them. Kids 13+ are welcome to attend many of our adult classes, but reach out if you'd like a teen-only class.

ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST HAVE A WAIVER ON FILE. We will have hard copies avialable on site. Please also refer to our parking and accessibility information. Youth participants must have an adult bring them into the building and pick them up when the workshop is done. In addition, we ask for two emergency contact numbers if you will not be staying on site. We appreciate your understanding.