How to Make Papyrus Paper With Corn Husks
Papyrus reed is hard to get, unless you live in Egypt. However, you can make a similar kind of paper using corn husks from the supermarket. This basic paper is simple to make and a great project for kids and adults alike. Corn husk paper has a rough surface that's easier to mark on with a brush and ink than with a pen or pencil. Spend some time experimenting with your paper to see what marks look best. You can even practice your hieroglyphics.
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Things You'll Need
- Corn husk leaves or tamale wrappers
- Non-reactive pot (glass, enamel, or stainless steel)
- Washing soda (sodium carbonate)
- Bowl
- Wheat flour
- Newspaper
- Interfacing or stiff fabric
Instructions
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1
Soak corn husks in water for two hours or until softened. Trim the pointed tip off each husk.
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2
Heat water in a non-reactive pot until almost boiling, then add 1 cup of washing soda for each 1 1/2 gallons of water. Add soaked husks and simmer for 30 minutes. The husks should be soft and translucent.
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3
Fill bowl with clean water and gently rinse corn husks. Refill the bowl with clean water and submerge the husks to keep them wet. Don't allow the corn husks to dry out.
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4
Mix wheat flour with water to create a wheat paste. Set aside.
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5
Take a corn husk and pat it dry between two pieces of newspaper.
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6
Lay a sheet of interfacing or fabric onto your work surface. Arrange a row of corn husk pieces ridged-side-down on the interfacing. Their edges should touch.
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7
Brush the layer of corn husks with the wheat paste. Now lay another layer of corn husks smooth-side-down at a ninety-degree angle to layer one. You've completed one piece of corn husk papyrus.
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8
Add a layer of newspaper on top of your papyrus and repeat steps 5 through 7 until you have used all your husks.
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9
Add a final sheet of newspaper and press under books or other weights until dry.
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1
Tips & Warnings
You may need to change newspapers to prevent molding.
Corn husks dry faster in dry climates.
Corn husks can also be ground and pressed to make pulp-style paper.
Handle corn husks with care to prevent breakage.
Corn husk paper can be brittle when dry.
