How handmade paper is made in BLKM Group India
Step 1: Sourcing Waste Cotton Rags
We begin by collecting recycled cotton textile waste, agricultural byproducts, or other natural fibers like seed pulp or jute. Our materials are carefully selected to ensure quality and sustainability.
Step 2: Cleaning & Preparing the Fibers
The raw fibers are thoroughly cleaned to remove impurities. For cotton paper, fabric waste is shredded and soaked in water to soften the fibers, preparing them for pulping.
Step 3: Pulping
The softened fibers are beaten into a fine pulp using traditional beaters or mechanical pulping methods. This slurry forms the base of our paper, ready to be shaped into sheets.
Step 4: Sheets Formation
Using handcrafted molds and deckles, the pulp is dipped into vats of the slurry. The water drains, leaving a thin, even layer of fibers on the screen — the future paper sheet.
Step 5: Couching
The wet sheet is carefully transferred (or “couched”) onto absorbent cloths or felts. Layers of these sheets are then stacked and pressed to remove excess water and compact the fibers.
Step 6: Drying
Pressed sheets are air-dried naturally under the sun or in a controlled environment. This slow drying process enhances the paper’s texture and strength.
Step 7: Sorting
Once dry, the paper is inspected and sometimes hand-trimmed for size. For seed paper, seeds are embedded during the pulp stage. Other varieties may receive natural flower petals or textures for added beauty.
