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Bev's Quick and Dirty Guide to Papermaking Page 5 |
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| A NOTE ON SAFETY Papermaking is NOT generally a hazardous pastime if you keep several things in mind: 1) Be sure to keep any electrical appliances (blender, hair dryer, iron, etc.) FAR AWAY from your wet areas. 2) If you get into coloring your pulp with dyes and pigments, be sure to read the directions thoroughly, and take necessary precautions, such as wearing rubber gloves, face mask, etc. 3) Sometimes chemicals, such as lye or soda ash, are used to break down tough plant fibers in cooking. Again, always wear rubber gloves, and when using toxic substances, cook them outside in an enamel pot on a hot plate or in a well-ventilated area, to avoid toxic fumes. Always rinse cooked fibers in clean water many times to remove chemical residue. 4) Finishing sprays (like Varathane), and some adhesives have the potential to be toxic if used improperly. Always read labels and take necessary safety measures before using. Always spray outside or in well-ventilated spaces. 5) Check the labels of any additives you use in papermaking to learn whether you need to take precautions. If in doubt, call the manufacturer. |