How to Make Security Paper

Security paper is made to thwart counterfeiters. It is hard to copy exactly, which makes it impossible to make an exact copy of the original object. The original formula for security paper is under patent, so it cannot be made by anyone but the patent holder. A crude version can be made that is similar, though, for demonstration purposes only.

Things You'll Need

• Paper pulp Opaque watercolor Paper making screen Water Basin Paintbrush Spray adhesive

Instructions

1. Fill the basin with water.

2. Add the paper pulp and mix.

3. Lower the paper-making screen into the pulp to create an even sheet of paper.

4. Set the paper aside to dry.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4, but make this paper slightly thicker by dipping it in the pulp a second time. This thicker sheet of paper is called the "base" paper.

6. Use the watercolor to make a mark on the base paper once it is dry. The mark can be initials, a crest or a symbol.

7. Wait for the watercolor to dry, and then spray it with adhesive.

8. Carefully lay the thinner sheet of paper onto the base paper and press the paper down to adhere it.

9. Hold the paper up to the light. You will be able to see the watercolor mark you made sandwiched between the two sheets of paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Instead of making your own paper from scratch, you can simulate the effect by putting watercolor on linen paper and gluing a thinner piece of linen paper on top. Linen paper is similar to the paper used in security paper.

• This demonstration is not to be used for profit or to anyway infringe on the security paper's patient owner's rights.

Resources

• Information on How to Make the Original Security Paper and Its Patient
• How to Make Paper