MAKING PAPER RAFFIA
The process begins with the selection of high-quality recycled or eco-friendly paper to ensure sustainability.
Pulping: The selected paper is pulped by breaking it down into fibres. This can be done through mechanical or chemical processes, but eco-friendly options are preferred to minimise environmental impact.
Bleaching and Colouring: Depending on the desired colour, the pulp may be bleached and dyed using safe and non-toxic pigments. This step allows for a wide variety of colour options for the final product.
Forming Strips: Once the pulp is prepared, it is formed into long, thin strips, resembling traditional raffia fibres. These strips are typically around 1/8 to 1/4 inch in width.
Drying: The paper strips are then dried thoroughly. This can be accomplished through air drying or in an industrial drying process, depending on the scale of production.
Winding and Spooling: After drying, the paper raffia strips are wound onto spools or reels, making them easy to handle and dispense.
Paper raffia possesses several noteworthy properties.
Texture: It has a natural and rustic texture, resembling traditional raffia, which adds an organic touch to our lampshades.
Strength: Despite being made of paper, it is surprisingly strong and can be used for tying and bundling.
In summary, paper raffia is a sustainable and creative alternative to traditional raffia, offering a natural look and feel while being versatile and eco-friendly. Its production process emphasises environmental responsibility, making it an excellent choice for those who value both aesthetics and sustainability.