Did you know you can sustainably create paper from native plants, and that native plant fibres are being used for a range of biomaterials? Papermaking is well known as a creative and artistic pursuit but also provides a springboard into a range of STEAM-themed inquiries, from forest science and horticulture to process chemistry and engineering, and ultimately material science and design. Native plant papermaking enables access to the ideas and concepts of the emerging economic sector of biomaterials, allowing for engaging and relevant learning opportunities including the rich social, environmental and technological history of papermaking and the modern need for decarbonising the economy.

Our 3-hour hands-on training session will take you through all the practical aspects of running a papermaking session with your class, from preparing pulp and setting up a papermaking station, to pressing and drying processes, and ideas how to use the finished paper in further projects. We’ll also discuss inquiry topics relevant to your subject area, which will elevate a simple craft pursuit into a powerful and memorable learning experience.