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What is hemp paper? Mr Beam explains

Hemp paper - the sustainable solution for modern printed goods that inspire optically

In a world that is becoming more and more digital in many areas, the demands placed on stationery focus on factors such as sustainability and resource conservation. A particularly popular raw material is industrial hemp processed into hemp paper. You can find out from us exactly what that is, how you can use the paper and how it can be processed for your individual purposes.

What is hemp paper?

Classic paper is made from the wood of trees (trunks). It's different with hemp paper - the paper is made from the fibres of the hemp plant. The large amount of pulp to which the hemp fibres are processed is particularly characteristic of this extraordinary type of paper. The paper is characterized by its natural look, which is based on the use of a natural product. It offers a wide range of applications and can be integrated into your everyday life in many different areas.

In which process steps does the production of hemp paper take place?

industrial hemp

The stalks of the hemp plant "Cannabis sativa" are decisive for the production of the special paper. After the hemp stalks have been harvested, they are first washed very thoroughly and separated from the coarse bark. Since the fibres, which are about 15 to 55 millimetres long, are beaten during the manufacturing process, they become a mushy mass - the so-called raw mass, which is also known as pulp. In addition to water and the starch from potatoes, some chalk can also be added to this. A scoop frame is used to give the newly created paper a shape. It is important that the damp paper can dry well. Furthermore, it is elementary to separate the paper and the scoop frame very carefully. The more careful this complex manufacturing process is, the higher the quality of the result.

What properties does hemp paper have?

Especially in comparison with the paper, which is usually made from wood, the advantages of stationery based on hemp can be seen astonishing. The paper made from industrial hemp impresses to a large extent with its longevity, is very hard-wearing and lasts significantly longer than is the case with conventional types of paper.

If you are looking for a paper that is extremely tear-resistant, you can have great fun with paper made from hemp. The secret lies in the strong fibres, which skeletonize the paper made from cellulose and give it great stability. Even if the paper comes into contact with moisture (e.g. due to high humidity), you can enjoy its strength. In addition, hemp paper is extremely strong - this is also a result of the robust hemp fibres.

Many conventional types of paper fade over the years - especially when they are exposed to comparatively strong UV radiation from the sun's rays. This is usually not the case with paper made from hemp. The typical yellowing effect, which often occurs with paper that has been stored for a long time, is also not to be expected with this uncoated paper.

The optical look of the hemp paper exudes a pure feeling for nature. - Perfect for the 2023 craft trends. The colour is a bit more subdued and clearly distinguishable from pure white. In terms of feel, this type of paper also differs significantly from classic paper. While the traditional paper surface made of wood feels softer and more even, that of hemp paper is a bit more robust and rugged. A touch with your fingertips proves to be an extraordinary sensory experience.

For what purposes is hemp paper used?

Thanks to his

  • impressively natural look,
  • tear-resistant feel and the
  • sustainable material properties

hemp paper is welcome wherever stationery is used for aesthetic purposes. This is the case, among other things, in the area of ​​stationery and the production of greeting or invitation cards. Furthermore, more and more alternative types of paper are used in the industry for the production of shipping packaging. While grass paper has been experiencing a real heyday in the packaging industry for a long time, paper made from industrial hemp is now also in great demand for this purpose. This is particularly so since shipping packaging is used on a large scale for online orders. Furthermore, it is conceivable to use hemp-based paper for the production of paper art. - A good alternative to construction paper. Due to its higher gram mage, paper made from hemp is primarily used for sophisticated paper goods.

In what ways is it possible to process hemp paper?

Laser hemp paper

Cutting hemp paper with scissors is doable, but it's not such a good idea if you want the result to be smooth and aesthetically pleasing. A great alternative for this is our Mr Beam laser cutter. This laser cuts the special paper with its very long fibres extremely precisely and ensures clean, straight cutting edges. The paper is not damaged during processing and retains its wonderful appearance. You can convince yourself of the advantages with this Easter card made of hemp paper.

Hemp paper Easter card

Is hemp paper really a sustainable solution?

Because all natural products are used in its manufacture, paper made from industrial hemp can rightly claim to be sustainable. If this special paper is disposed of, it decomposes naturally and returns its components to nature. Because of this, paper made from the hemp plant can be recycled multiple times and with great frequency. Furthermore, when choosing paper from an ecological point of view, you can take into account that industrial hemp is a raw material that grows back very quickly. As a result, the raw material resources are almost inexhaustible as long as sufficient cultivation areas are available. Only small amounts of CO₂ are produced during the production of this special paper.

Conclusion on hemp paper

Hemp paper is a visually and haptically attractive alternative to conventional types of paper, which impresses with its natural character and can be cut with a laser machine. By using fast-growing natural products that can be recycled at any time, the paper is an extremely innovative solution to make the paper and printing industry even more sustainable in the future.

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