Maesstría 100% Cotton Rag Pulp Sheets

Many brands that claim to offer 25% cotton paper actually use cotton linters, which are the fluffy fibers freshly harvested from the cotton plant. Ever wondered what makes up the remaining 75%?
It's wood pulp.

Both cotton linters and wood pulp have shorter fibers, making them easy to process in industrial machines, but this results in weaker, less durable paper. The blend of 25% cotton linters and 75% wood pulp not only lacks sustainability but also increases the risk of pilling while painting while painting and leads to yellowing over time due to the presence of lignin in the wood.

In contrast, we up-cycle cotton rag cuttings from hosiery mills and never use wood pulp. This ensures our paper is lignin-free, much stronger, and lasts significantly longer without yellowing, provided it’s stored correctly.

Traditionally, all art papers were handmade from cotton rags. However, with the decline of cotton hosiery mills and the scarcity of rags in Europe, many brands switched to using cotton linters and wood pulp, which are easier to process mechanically.

We source fresh cotton rag cuttings from local hosiery mills. These rags, with their long fibers, provide exceptional strength and durability to our paper. During the handmade process, artisans shake the pulp on a mesh, allowing the fibers to further open up. As the wet sheet forms and the mesh is lifted, the long fibers interlock, creating a strong bond. This results in paper that is much stronger compared to commercially available papers.

For artists, this strength means the paper can withstand multiple layers of medium and various techniques without warping or deteriorating, offering a reliable, high-quality surface for their work.

Handmade art papers offer unmatched quality and timeless appeal, especially for artists who value durability and authenticity in their work. Each sheet is crafted by artisans, ensuring that the fibers bond naturally, which enhances the paper’s strength and allows it to withstand multiple layers or washes without degrading.

Created by artists for artists, these papers have a deep connection to tradition, used for centuries by masters of the craft, including Renaissance artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Unlike machine-made papers, which are mass-produced and often lack the durability required for professional-grade artwork, handmade papers are carefully crafted for longevity. This results in stronger, longer-lasting paper that holds up to various techniques without deteriorating.

Choosing handmade paper reflects a commitment to quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship, while also elevating the perceived value of your artwork, making it as unique and distinctive as your art.

Yes, Maesstría Papers are genuinely handmade. Each sheet is meticulously VAT-lifted by skilled artisans, making it a true piece of handicraft.

Unlike papers formed using semi-automatic or cylinder mould machines, which may rely on short fibres and can affect strength and durability, our process ensures that each sheet is individually formed by hand. This dedication to traditional craftsmanship guarantees that every sheet is unique and of the highest quality.

Yes, Maesstria papers are designed to enhance the longevity of your artworks. Our papers use acid-free additives and sizing, ensuring they are both lignin-free and tree-free. They are buffered to protect against acid leaching from the atmosphere, treated with fungicide, and free from optical brighteners.
These features collectively contribute to preserving the integrity of your artwork and preventing yellowing, as long as you also take care to store or display the papers in appropriate conditions.

For optimal longevity, store your papers in a low-humidity environment. During the monsoon season, ensure your sheets are kept in well-sealed protective plastic sleeves or covers. When mounting your papers, use archival-quality backboards and adhesives. Avoid regular cardboard, as it can transfer acids and reduce the paper’s lifespan. Adhering to these storage and care practices will help preserve the vibrancy and integrity of your artworks for decades.

Maesstría is dedicated to sustainability and reducing our ecological footprint through several key practices. Our paper is made from 100% cotton rag cuttings from local hosiery mills, ensuring it is tree-free and minimizes waste. We use recyclable packaging materials to further our commitment to the environment. Currently, we use resealable poly-bags to protect the sheets from moisture, but we are actively seeking more eco-friendly alternatives. Our ongoing efforts to utilize recycled materials and reduce environmental impact reflect our dedication to sustainability.

Yes, you can! We include a free trial pack with every order, featuring samples from our Premio and Artisto Series. If you’d like to explore our papers before placing a full order, you can order a trial pack for just Rs. 59, with free shipping by Post within India.