Papermaking Colleagues,

In the process of setting up a papermaking studio, I was often frustrated by the lack of information on the building of equipment for the hand papermaker. Most books focus on the process of papermaking and only touch on the subject of building equipment.

There is a need for an all-in-one source covering all aspects of studio equipment. I hope to fill this gap by self-publishing a comprehensive book on the building of equipment for the hand papermaker. I will concentrate on equipment used in the Western style of papermaking. The book will be basic enough to be helpful to a novice and in-depth enough to benefit the experienced papermaker.

In addition to my own experience, I can't overlook an enormous resource: other papermakers who have been involved in studio setup. I am interested in your ideas and experiences about any aspect of building equipment or setting up a studio. In exchange for your contribution you will be acknowledged in the book. I am seeking information about all aspects of studio equipment including but not restricted to the following:

• MOULDS: Window screen; heat-shrinking polypropylene; mahogany-laid moulds; innovative moulds.

• DECKLES: Materials.

• DECKLE BOXES: Used to make sample sheets; have you made and/or used a Nepalese-style deckle box?

• WATERMARKS: Examples of contemporary watermarks; unconventional methods of producing watermarks.

• VATS: Have you built an advanced vat with a hog or heating devices?

• METHODS OF BEATING: Any information excluding the building of Hollanders.

• METHODS OF CUTTING OR SHREDDING RAW MATERIALS: Any information.

• CALANDERING: Have you built a set of calandering rolls?

• VACUUM SYSTEMS: Any information.

• PRESSES: Simple wood through to screw and steel hydraulic presses.

• FELTS: Do you know of creative alternatives?

• DRYING SYSTEMS: Drying racks; drying boxes.

• GENERAL STUDIO EQUIPMENT: Strainers; mixers.

If you have any other ideas or suggestions that may be of value to this work, feel free to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.