Don’t leave paper recycling to the experts! You can recycle your own paper at home with just a few simple steps. By recycling your own paper, you can reduce household waste and create unique handmade items like cards and gifts.
What You’ll Need:
- Waste paper
- Water
- A blender or food processor
- An old picture frame or wood to make your own frame
- Mesh or screen (for making your paper mold)
- Felt, cloth, or sponge
- A rectangular bin or pan to hold water
- Decorations like dried flowers, confetti, or seeds (optional)
Follow these main steps to recycle your own paper:
- Tear the paper into small pieces and blend with warm water until smooth pulp forms.
- Assemble your paper mold using a frame and screen.
- Pour the pulp into the mold in a bin of water, adding decorations if desired.
- Press out excess water and lift the paper from the mold.
- Dry the paper by air drying or using an iron.
Watch a tutorial video here for a visual guide on making your own paper.