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How paper is made….

Madalena Silveirinha e Lisete Portela
Moinho do Papel – Leiria

WORKSHOP
NOVEMBER 6TH OF 2025, 10.30AM
ROOM 5 (PRINTMAKING WORKSHOP) EP.1 – ESAD.CR

Paper pulp workshop at Moinho do Papel, a handicraft workshop for making recycled paper and/or cotton paper: cutting or tearing newspaper; crushing the mixture of cut newspaper and water to make pulp; making the sheets and drying them on a clothesline. Moinho do Papel’s paper pulp workshop aims to demonstrate the handmade paper produced at the mill, combining environmentally friendly practices, inviting people to recycle paper and understand how to use it in a creative and sustainable way. It is an engaging practical experience, allowing participants to appreciate the importance of reusing materials and creativity in the use of paper.

It was here that the country’s first paper mill was established in the 15th century.
That is why Moinho do Papel, created in 2009, is dedicated to teaching traditional arts and crafts related to paper and cereals.
More specifically, it focuses on grinding corn, wheat and rye, producing olive oil and manufacturing paper.
Throughout the tour, you can learn about some of the stories of the various uses of the Paper Mill.
In the permanent exhibition room, there is also a panel with a chronological timeline of paper manufacturing, from 300 BC in China to the 20th century in Portugal.
At the Mill, you can also see six pairs of millstones, which work in different ways, as well as all the tools related to paper manufacturing, notably:

  • The press
  • The drying rack
  • The Dutch vat (used to grind paper using electric power)
  • The guillotine
  • Handmade paper

The surroundings of the mill are also an added bonus, contributing to the well-being and welcome of those who visit it. With beautiful natural scenery, combining the serenity of the river with the vigorous waterfalls, contact with nature, almost untouched, is guaranteed. And right in the heart of the city.

registrations:
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