The Vat is born
- Cameron de Bruyn
- Jun 24
- 2 min read
Welcome to this edition of "The Vat". This is what I am calling this blog now.
What is a vat you ask?
In papermaking, a vat is a container that holds the pulp (a mixture of fibers and water) used to make paper. It's a crucial part of the process, especially in hand papermaking, where the vat provides the space for the papermaker to form sheets of paper using a mold and deckle.
So in my previous post, Le' Stop - Woza ART, I talked about Mimi van der Merwe. Who really was the instigator into this fascination that then became an obsession. After trying for nearly 2 years and giving up. I decided to put proper effort into this and invest into creating the correct tools for the job. As you can see by the mould and deckle above. Hint: I find using duct tape or any waterproof tape with a smooth surface helps tremendously with couching the paper onto felt.
But then within 3 weeks. I've started crafting a process and a rhythm I hope to follow for a few years. Apart from actually getting a finished piece of paper. Papermaking along with trail running has helped me calm my mind. There is no way you can speed up the process without causing yourself frustration and giving up hope.
Coming from a computer science background, faster and more efficient often yields higher returns. But in papermaking this cannot be farther from the truth.
It is for this reason I have found this practice so beneficial to every part of life. My relationships are better, because I take the time to listen. My health is better, because I am not rushing to achieve a fitness goal. My art practice is also better, because I don't feel obligated to enter competitions and exhibitions out of my control. I can simply, pause and create in a natural rhythmic fashion.
However, this also does not mean that I have no intention of marketing my goods.
My goal with papermaking
I plan to document the expansion of my city, Pretoria, by doing gelli-plate transfers of photos I have taken while trail running in the area.
Besides making paper I have been busy upgrading this website. There is now an events calendar which will be populated with many art events soon.
As well as a new section for listed art galleries:
If you'd like to purchase some paper, you can use the link below
Each sheet is individually crafted using traditional papermaking techniques, giving it a unique texture, natural deckled edges, and an artisanal charm that machine-made paper simply can't match. NB: When using the tool. Understand that white (a.k.a transparent) will not appear on the print. All prints will only be done in black.
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