Chemical and Materials Engineering - Making Paper
chalkboard

GRADES 4 - 8
MAKING PAPER
DIRECTIONS FOR MAKING A MOLD AND DECKLE

OBJECTIVES:

Directions are provided for two different methods of making a mold and deckle for the MAKING PAPER lesson plan. The purpose of the mold is to catch the cellulose fibers to form the paper. The purpose of the deckle is to make smooth edges on the paper. The mold and deckle should be the same size.

Option 2 is a more durable, but more expensive method of making a mold and deckle.

SAFETY NOTES: Adult Supervision Strongly Suggested -- A Utility Knife Or Other Cutting Tool Is Required. Adults Should Perform Steps 1 and 2.

STEPS TO FOLLOW:

Option 1: Cut two pieces of foam board approximately 8 inches by 10 inches (8" X 10").

Cut out the center of each piece, leaving a 1 inch frame.

Cover the frames with duct tape. Make sure the foam board is completely covered to waterproof it.

MATERIALS:

Option 1:

  • Foam Board
  • Window Screening Or Pantyhose Leg
  • Duct Tape
  • Utility Knife or Other Cutting Tool
  • Option 2:

  • 2 Wooden 5" X 7" Frames
  • Window Screening
  • Heavy-Duty Stapler
  • Sand Paper
  • Varnish and Paint Brush (Optional)

    Cut a piece of screening slightly smaller than 8" X 10". (Alternative: A pantyhose leg can be stretched over the frame and tied at both ends instead of using the screening.)

    Tape the screening onto one foam board with duct tape, pulling the screening taut. This is the mold. The frame without the screening is the deckle.

    Option 2: Sand frames to remove sharp edges.

    Optional: As an option you can varnish the frames.

    Cut the screening to the size of frame. Staple the screening onto one frame, pulling snugly. This is the mold. The frame without the screening is the deckle.

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