Creative Paper Crafts
Paper is one of the most primitive and cost-effective materials used for Packaging, Art, Journals, Crafts, Entertainment, Books Communication, Handmade Decorations, and all types of Stationary. It is an endless source of creativity & innovation and has inspired and educated more people than we can ever imagine!
The History of Paper
In Ancient Egyptian History, important people and events were set in Clay Tablets. The first advances toward a more portable writing medium were made by the Egyptians. The word ‘Paper’ derives from the Greek term used for ‘Papyrus’, an Egyptian writing material made from beaten strips of the Papyrus Plant. The Egyptians invented and developed the Papyrus–making process as early as 2500 BC, and traded with Ancient Greece & Rome.
In Time, animal skins and parchment was used instead of Papyrus Paper and although expensive, a light material of Silk was also sometimes used.
Writing Paper as we know it today, was finally invented by the Chinese in about 100 AD.
During the early dynasties of Ancient China (between 1600 BC – 256 BC), documents were originally written on bone or bamboo strips sewn together into scrolls, making them very heavy & awkward to transport. The first paper-making process was developed in China during the early 2nd Century. It is considered to be one of the Four Great Inventions of Ancient China.
Paper is described as a flat sheet or tissue, usually made from plant fiber. Chinese Paper was originally a mixture of Bark and hemp. A 1000 years later, paper was introduced to Europe, and Flax was used with hemp instead. Paper was only being produced in America by 1690.
After the invention of paper, it was possible for the first time to retain detailed information and pass on the culture of a society to following generations. Through written stories, History as we know it, began.
Some Historians speculate that Paper was a key element in cultural advancement, as most of history, cultures, stories & legends were first captured and kept since writing paper became widespread only in the 3rd Century AD. It took more than 2000 years, after the invention of writing paper, for humankind to develop writing & reading skills and to become educated.
The Benefits of Crafting with Paper
It is a relatively inexpensive and readily available material.
It is versatile and can be used to create a wide variety of projects, such as cards, decorations and sculptures.
It is easy to cut, fold and manipulate, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters.
It is lightweight, making it easy to transport and display finished projects.
It can be recycled, making it an environmentally friendly crafting option.
It can be used in combination with other materials to create unique and interesting projects.
It can be used to create 3D objects and models.
It can be used for paper quilling, origami and paper mache.
Make your own paper
To make your own paper, you will need:
- A Quality Paper Making Kit containing a Mould Frame Screen
- Recycled Paper, Organic Fibres and/or Cotton Linter Shreds to add strength to your Handcrafted Paper
- Reusable Blotter Sheets for pressing and drying up excess water
Creating sheets of paper, or decorative paper elements for other artistic projects is a unique and personal crafting process which is appreciated for the skill and time involved in making each sheet. Find the full Paper Making Process Here!
Disclaimer: At no cost to you, I might make a commission on qualifying purchases from affiliate links on this page. Thank you for your support!