Definition of Vellum Paper
The term vellum is widely used and has a variety of meanings in both the paper and graphic arts industries. Additionally, its use and meaning have changed over time and it's often used interchangeably with "parchment." Understanding what vellum is, and what it is not, will help choose this substrate wisely.
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From the Dictionary
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Vellum is defined as a fine-grained, unsplit lambskin, kidskin or calfskin prepared especially for writing on or for binding books. It is also defined as a strong cream-colored paper.
Ancient Papers
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The original use of paper dates back to 3000 B.C. when the Egyptians crafted it from papyrus, from which it takes its name. Using animal skins created a more durable substrate, but the process was more complex. Both parchment and vellum were made from animal hide. Generally, parchment was made from calf, sheep or goat skin, while vellum was made solely from calf skin with the highest quality being made from the skin of stillborn calves.
In either case, the skin was stretched on a frame and scraped with a specially curved knife. Scraping was alternated with wetting and drying the skin, and the process was repeated until the desired consistency and texture were achieved. -
Archival Properties
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Because vellum and parchment were more durable and stable than wood or plant fiber paper, it was the historic choice for important documents. The U.S. Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights were all written on it. Many religions required that only the finest vellum be used for documentation.
Modern Manufacturing
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Most paper mills are now manufacturing vellum and parchment using cellulose or wood-based pulp with automated methods, in much the same way that all paper is currently made. Paper vellum or parchment merely simulates the substrates of old, but automated manufacturing makes them much more cost-effective.
Opaque or Translucent
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True vellum usually had a translucent quality, especially when made with the finest calf skin. Parchment tended to have a more mottled look to it and was less translucent. In today's market, paper parchment still carries a mottled look and is opaque. Modern vellum, on the other hand, can be either translucent or opaque. Modern translucent vellum is often used to create special effect pages and add elegance to printed material.
Vellum Finishes and Colors
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To add to the confusion about vellum, paper mills manufacture stocks that are said to have a vellum finish, meaning it's rough or toothy. There are some low grade papers that carry the name vellum (vellum bristol) referring only to its surface not the overall quality of the paper. While the original definition of vellum indicated a cream color, modern vellum bristols come in a wide array of popular colors.
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