When choosing paper for your artistic process, understanding its composition and manufacturing process is essential. Paper sizing, in particular, plays a critical role in determining how the paper interacts with various mediums. Let’s explore the fascinating world of paper sizing and the methods used to manufacture papers.
What is Sizing?
Sizing is a protective layer added to paper to control water and pigment absorption. It ensures smooth application, prevents blotting, and minimizes buckling.
Gelatin Sizing: Made from animal bones (cow or pig), offering excellent water control.
Chemical Starch: Vegan, free of animal origin, and equally effective.
Why is Sizing Important?
Color Control: Keeps pigments vibrant and on the surface.
Water Resistance: Prevents blotting and ensures workability.
Lifting Capabilities: Aids corrections and layering.
Note: Without proper sizing, the colors may appear dull, and the surface may not withstand repeated washes or strokes, especially in watercolor techniques.
Types of Sizing
• Internal Sizing: Added during pulp formation for consistent absorbency.
• External Sizing: Applied to the surface for extra water control.
Manufacturing of Paper:
The quality of paper is also determined by the method of its production. Let’s understand the three primary processes used for manufacturing paper:
Hand-Made paper making process
1. Hand-Made: The hand-made method involves creating paper sheets one at a time. This labor-intensive process uses high-quality cotton rags or pulp, ensuring a durable and artist-friendly surface.
Characteristics: Uneven texture, deckled edges, and superior absorbency.
Best For: Artist-grade artworks, including watercolor and mixed media.
2. Fourdrinier Machine: The Fourdrinier process is a mechanized method where a continuous sheet of paper is created on a flat wire screen.
Characteristics: Uniform surface, smoother texture, and economical production.
Best For: Everyday use, student-grade papers, and large-scale projects.
3. Cylinder Mould-Made: Considered the gold standard for fine art papers, this process uses a rotating cylinder to form the paper. It mimics the hand-made process while offering greater consistency and efficiency.
Characteristics: Durable, evenly sized, and available in various textures (smooth/hot press, cold press, or rough).
Best For: Professional artists and archival works.
Key Points
• Sizing controls water flow, enhances vibrancy, and reduces warping.
• Hand-made and mould-made papers are best for professional artists.
• Match paper to your medium for the best results.
By learning about sizing and paper manufacturing techniques, you’ll be better equipped to choose the perfect paper for your artistic needs, ensuring your creations look their absolute best.
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