Paper-making from Fabrics

Making | Casting | Forming

Live Online Workshop

Exploring the Dimensions of Papermaking

The Art of Fabric Preparation

The process of making paper involves transforming raw materials, whether natural fabrics or recycled textiles, into a malleable pulp that serves as the foundation for the final product. This step begins with preparing the chosen fabric, breaking it down into cellulose fibers through soaking and blending. Participants will explore various techniques to achieve the right consistency and texture, allowing them to create unique paper sheets that reflect their creative vision. Understanding the nuances of fiber preparation is critical in achieving a successful outcome, setting the stage for artistic exploration.
Shaping Creativity.

Forming is the phase where the prepared pulp is shaped into sheets or other desired forms using molds. This hands-on process allows participants to experiment with different textures, patterns, and thicknesses, giving each piece its unique character. By utilizing simple tools such as screens and pressing techniques, individuals will learn to control the distribution of fibers within the mold. This step not only emphasizes the tactile nature of papermaking but also fosters creativity, enabling artists to envision and realize their concepts in three-dimensional forms.
Innovative Paper Casting.

Casting represents the pinnacle of creativity in papermaking, where the molded pulp is transformed into intricate sculptural objects and reliefs. In this phase, participants will delve into advanced techniques that allow for the reproduction of shapes and textures through the use of custom molds. The casting process opens up new possibilities for artistic expression, enabling the creation of lightweight, durable forms that can be adorned, painted, or incorporated into mixed-media projects. This transformative stage highlights the versatility of paper, pushing the boundaries of traditional methods and inviting participants to explore innovative approaches to their craft.

About.

Embark on a creative journey in our innovative live online workshop, "Paper Making from Fabrics."

This immersive experience invites participants to delve into the art of transforming textiles into unique paper forms while embracing a laboratory mindset of experimentation, investigation, and creative inquiry.

At Paper Lab Berlin, we view the intersection of paper and fabric as a rich medium for artistic expression, unlocking endless creative possibilities.

Workshop Overview:

Duration: 2 Sessions of 2,5 Hours Each (150 minutes each)
Workshop Fee: €120
Format: The workshop consists of two live sessions, with a two-week period in between for hands-on practice and exploration. This interval fosters discussion and deepens understanding, allowing participants to apply foundational techniques.

Workshop Structure and Content:

The workshop is focused on three main volumes: paper making, mold making, and paper casting.

Making: Discover the fundamental processes of creating paper from natural and synthetic fabrics. Participants will learn how to extract and manipulate cellulose fibers to craft high-quality paper.
Forming: In the first session, attendees will be introduced to essential mold-making skills, allowing them to design simple molds for paper casting. This foundation is crucial for capturing intricate textures and shapes for later projects.
Paper Casting: Participants will also engage in casting techniques, using their molds to create sculptural paper forms. The first session offers hands-on guidance in these foundational techniques.

In the second session, we will advance our focus, exploring advanced mold-making techniques and deepening casting skills to create detailed and dynamic 3D paper forms.

Introduction to the Workshop:

Throughout this educational experience, participants will explore the historical and conceptual connections between paper, fabric, and cellulose. By crafting personalized layers from textiles, attendees will learn to create lightweight, sculptural forms, including intricate 3D reliefs.

The molds created during the workshop are reusable, enabling ongoing artistic exploration well beyond the sessions.

Learning Experience:

Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the fabric-based paper making processes, mold creation, and advanced casting techniques. This interactive workshop promotes self-exploration and creative inquiry, allowing participants to develop their unique artistic journeys.

No prior experience is necessary, making this workshop accessible to all skill levels. We begin with foundational techniques before progressively advancing to more complex applications, supporting every participant in their creative practice.

Tools and Materials:

In the first session, we will provide a comprehensive overview of all the tools and materials required for practicing the techniques covered. While participants can engage in these processes in various environments, some essential tools include:

Basic scissors
Roller blades
Blender
Water container

This flexibility allows participants to adapt their practice to their available space.

Workshop Format:

Each session will be live-streamed and recorded, with participants receiving permanent access to all course materials. This includes video presentations, instructional demonstrations, supplementary articles, and detailed documentation of techniques and processes, enabling continued exploration at one’s own pace.

Conclusion:

Join us in this transformative workshop to unlock the potential of fabric in creating stunning paper forms. Dive into an environment dedicated to innovation and creative exploration, and reserve your spot today to embark on your journey in paper making from fabrics with Paper Lab Berlin!

Join our Paper Making from Fabrics workshop, thoughtfully scheduled to align with time zones worldwide, ensuring access for participants across the globe.

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