If you’re searching for versatile cardstock paper, whether for your upcoming painting project or to add to your arts & crafts collection, you must have stumbled upon several publications recommending sugar paper.
Sugar paper has revolutionized the art industry’s ability to suit diverse art projects. The paper is remarkably durable, too, thanks to its enhanced thickness.
Although its etymology is steeped in the confectionery industry, sugar paper’s modern applications transcend multiple sectors.
Here’s a definitive guide to sugar paper, including its origin and how it took the art industry by storm.
Unwrapping Sugar Paper
Sugar paper, more formally known as construction paper, is a colored cardstock paper characterized by its slightly rough and unfinished surface. The paper’s textured surface is due to its primary source material – wood pulp.
However, the delicate particles on sugar paper aren’t a design flaw. On the contrary, they’re a quirky element that makes these cardstock papers versatile for different art and craft projects.
Tracing the Etymological Origin
The names “sugar paper” and “construction paper” have a fascinating etymological origin.
The term ‘construction paper’ is likely rooted in the fact that these cardstock papers were popularized by classroom art and craft projects.
Construction paper has been a staple in classroom projects since at least the late-19th century. As learners widely used the paper to create various artworks, it’s widely theorized that that’s how it got its name.
Surprisingly, the etymology of ‘sugar paper’ dates back to at least the 17th century. English confectionery bakers used earlier iterations of modern construction paper to make bags containing sugar and other confectionery products.
It’s also worth noting that construction paper has gone by numerous names depending on the historical period. In the early 20th century, the paper was widely referred to as ‘colored school paper,’ ‘poster papers,’ or simply ‘school papers.’
Chronicling the History of Sugar Paper
The initial production and usage of construction paper predates its etymological history.
However, while originally confined to the English baking industry, the mass creation of sugar paper began around the late 19th century with the advent of synthetic dye technology. Construction paper manufactured around this period was largely targeted at early learning institutions.
Note that elementary color theory was a basic subject in the kindergarten curriculum. Therefore, manufacturers considered elementary schools a ready market for their new invention.
However, despite young learners being the first beneficiaries of construction paper, this cardstock paper soon began to pique the interest of renowned artists like Abraham Walkowitz and Jackson Pollack.
How Is Sugar Paper Produced?
Most sugar paper is made from wood pulp, dye, and recycled paper.
The process typically begins by shredding raw wood and mixing it with hot water in a large steel vat called a pulper to convert it into wood pulp. Recycled paper and liquid dye are added to the pulp to produce a mushy combination of the desired texture and color.
Next, the slurry mixture is dried by transferring it across heated barrels through a conveyor belt.
As the mixture dries out, it gradually takes on the form of the sugar paper.
The final step entails feeding the colored paper into a special machine for assembly and cutting.
What Makes Sugar Paper So Versatile?
Sugar paper comes in diverse colors, making it suitable for various art and craft projects.
Thanks to its rich background hues, construction paper can serve as a dynamic substrate for fancy drawings and art forms. You can use the cardstock paper with crayon drawings, watercolors, or fingerpainting. The paper is also excellent for making cut-outs.
Sugar paper’s delicate texture makes it a perfect choice for collaging, too.
To make a paper collage with construction paper, start by developing a theme for your project and then assemble the base materials. Next, cut, tear, or fold the paper strips into different shapes.
Layer your sugar paper in stripes for maximum visual effects, then add the necessary embellishments.
Complete the project by attaching the paper strips with art glue.
What Else Makes Sugar Paper Desirable?
Besides its suitability for different art projects, sugar paper is beloved for its superior strength and durability.
Most construction paper is 0.003 inches (0.76 mm) thick, making it incredibly durable. If you want to create artwork with a longer visual shelf-life, sugar paper would be an excellent substrate.
Construction paper’s durability is also attributable to its textured surface. The coarseness protects sugar paper from accidental tears, making it easy to cut and bend to create different artwork without cracking it.
Construction paper is easier to work with, too. In most manufacturing processes, the rough spots are symmetrically rendered for easy folding.
Last but not least, sugar paper is up to 85% recyclable.
The Bottom Line
Sugar paper has become the go-to cardstock paper for artists and teachers alike, thanks to its incredible versatility and durability. The paper comes in fancy colors tailored for every art & craft project, while its diverse hues make it the perfect painting substrate for pastel artists.
However, construction paper can differ considerably depending on the manufacturing process. To unlock the full benefits of sugar paper, obtaining it from a reputable art supplier is prudent.
Read online reviews and talk to fellow artists or teachers for deeper insights into the quality of construction paper that a supplier offers. Besides, choose a company that maintains a professional and responsive customer support desk.
