How to Recycle Printer Paper

Handmade paper can be created from scrap printer paper.

If you use a printer, then you know how much printer paper can be wasted from normal printer use. One way to recycle and make use out of scrap printer paper is to transform it into handmade paper that can be used when making journals, handmade cards or stationary. To recycle printer paper into handmade paper, it is important to follow a set of guidelines that will enable the paper to be pulverized, reconstituted and reformed.

Things You'll Need

• Scrap printer paper
• Blender
• Pot
• Water
• Paper shredder
• Rectangular tray, 10-by-14 inches, approximately 6 inches deep
• Screen, approximately 8-by-10 inches

Instructions

1. Shred the scrap printer paper in a paper shredder.

2. Place the shredded paper into a pot, and pour water over the top until the paper is completely submerged.

3. Heat the paper water until it starts to boil.

4. Pour the mixture into a blender.

5. Blend on high for 3 minutes.

6. Fill a tray half way up with water.

7. Pour the paper pulp mixture into the tray, stirring well.

8. Submerge a screen into the tray. Allow the screen to remain at the bottom of the tray for 1 minute.

9. Slowly pull up the screen, which will contain the paper pulp.

10. Place the screen onto a flat surface until it dries completely. This can take up to three hours.

11. Peel the recycled printer paper off the screen, and use it for your craft project.

References

• Exploratorium: Handmade Paper
• Instructables: How to Make and Recycle Paper