Today I joined Anna Haglin for her second paper making class. This week, the students were making lots of handmade paper teamed up with a partner. They learned the proper abaca to water ratio in the tub, how to use the mold and deckle to form the sheets, how to flip and press the mold to release the sheets, and how to squeeze and dry the paper so that it would dry flat. Anna also discussed and showed examples of different materials to make abaca out of and how different stir times in the raina affected the finished result.
Working with a partner for this was very fun because we got to discuss our practices with each other. I think that these classes can be an excellent form of community building because you meet so many different artists that work in different fields and get to learn about the different ways people are creating art in their lives. The students brought their handout and notes from last week and were well prepared to try it for themselves. Each student was able to make lots of paper, which were then “sandwiched” in the drying rack. This process was a little confusing, so once I caught on Anna had me lead students in assembling the sandwiches. Overall, today's class was lots of fun and I think the students were satisfied with the amount of paper they got to walk away with and the ability to make more on their own. I really enjoyed my time with MCBA and I’m excited to come back one day as the space and classes are so informative and inspiring!