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Statistics from The World Counts, a website providing up-to-date data on the environment and sustainability, reveal that about 42% of global timber is dedicated to paper production. Crafting a single sheet of paper typically requires between 2-13 litres of water, a figure that fluctuates based on paper size, type, and whether the fibre is virgin or recycled. Recycled fibre generally requires less water.
At home, paper can be creatively recycled into unique art pieces, home décor, toys, and sculptures. Materials like cardboard, newspapers, magazines, books, notebooks, catalogues, and office paper provide a wide range of possibilities for artistic expression. The potential for innovation is limitless.
Making a creative paper pulp painting starts with gathering old paper, whether white or coloured. The paper is torn into small pieces and placed in a large container to soak in water for 30-45 minutes. After soaking, the wet paper is transferred to a blender, where it is pulped by blending at various speeds for about 30 seconds.
Alternatively, the paper can be kneaded by hand. Excess water is squeezed out by forming the pulp into small balls. To achieve a smooth and cohesive texture, a small amount of white glue can be incorporated.
Once the pulp is prepared, it is rolled out on a sheet of plastic wrap and shaped by hand or using pre-made moulds into designs such as flowers, jars, squares, circles, or other patterns. Additional touches, such as flower petals, leaves, or greenery, can be added for an elegant finish. The shaped pulp is left to air dry, after which it can be painted with oil paint to finalise the artistic transformation.
Crafting a square-shaped pen holder begins with preparing a set of old paper sheets, each measuring 20 cm in length and 10 cm in width. Each sheet is rolled into a cylindrical tube with a bamboo stick or pencil, securing the edges with a small amount of glue. This process is repeated 32 times to make 32 tubes.
To make the pen holder, the tubes are organised into four groups of eight. Each group is bonded with white glue and then assembled into a square shape. Once assembled, the piece is left to air dry. Meanwhile, a base is crafted from cardboard or paperboard, cut to the required dimensions, and attached securely. The pen holder can be decorated with paint or watercolours, and adorned with creative patterns for a personalised touch.
Children's models and toys can be crafted from a simple dough mixture of water, white glue, and paper. Equal amounts of glue and water are mixed in a large container, and paper is cut into long, thin strips, using three times the amount of paper compared to the glue and water mixture. The strips are thoroughly soaked in the glue-water mixture.
Subsequently, the mixture is shaped using suitable moulds to form figures such as dolls, animals, or birds. The models are left to air dry until fully solidified. Once dried, the models can be painted and detailed with features like mouths, eyes, or hair.
Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, involves transforming paper, through a series of steps, to create three-dimensional shapes and designs, including geometric patterns, animal figures, and floral arrangements. These creations not only offer entertainment and relaxation but also serve as decorative elements for the home, often adorning walls or ceilings.
The choice of paper significantly impacts the final design. Various types of paper, such as printer sheets, magazine pages, and catalogue sheets, can be repurposed for origami. For those keen on delving deeper into this engaging craft, numerous online resources and YouTube tutorials provide detailed step-by-step instructions.
Old paper can be transformed into unique and beautiful plates of various sizes by selecting appropriate quantities and types of paper based on the intended use and plate size. For organising items like accessories or children's toys, it is recommended to use robust paper such as magazine or book pages. Conversely, lightweight paper, such as newspaper, is ideal for creating decorative plates that enhance the elegance of a house.
The design process begins with preparing approximately 30-45 sheets of old paper for a small plate, with adjustments made based on the desired plate size. Each sheet is rolled into a cylindrical tube using a bamboo stick or pencil, with a small amount of white glue applied at the edge to secure the tube. This procedure is repeated for all the sheets.
After that, the tip of each tube is inserted into another to form a strip of interconnected tubes. White glue is applied to the tips to secure them together. This strip is then coiled to create a flat, coil-like base for the plate. The base is gently compressed and its sides are shaped upwards. The process continues by extending the strip and coiling it until the desired height is achieved. Finally, the plate is coated with white glue on both sides, allowed to dry and set, then painted with vibrant colours and decorated with drawings.
Note: Old paper can be repurposed in a number of ways. For example, it can be used as a pet cage liner to create a cosy environment, provided it is plain and free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, it can be used for drawing or writing, and as a cleaning rag for windows and doors, reducing the need for disposable paper towels.
In conclusion, it is crucial to acknowledge the exceptional strides made by the Emirate of Sharjah in waste management and recycling, aimed at enhancing quality of life, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring sustainability at both local and national levels.
A significant achievement is the collaboration between Sharjah City Municipality and Sharjah Environment Company, also known as BEEAH Group. As the region's largest waste management and recycling company, BEEAH Group is globally recognised, ranking third in its field. The company operates advanced facilities that recycle metals, convert waste into energy, and engage in other innovative processes.
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