About Prairie Paper
Prairie Paper is a sustainable option for conservation and the fine arts. The papers are designed and tested for longevity, using ingredients sourced from the fields surrounding our studios at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. Prairie Papers are made using locally collected remains from agricultural crops. We take unwanted stalks, stems, leaves, and seed pods leftover from harvest and transform them into high-quality, handmade papers, in combination with recycled cotton linters from the textile industry. By using alternative fibers, solar-powered studios, and high-efficiency technology, we are able to cut down on costs and carbon emissions from processing and transportation. Prairie papers are tested for flexibility, fold endurance, tensile strength, burst strength, and internal tear resistance. In addition, we carry out artificial aging experiments and pH tests to ensure our papers stand the test of time. All papers have a relatively stable pH and exhibit minimal color change after artificial aging. Papers all have internal sizing and are available with external sizing upon request. Download our Prairie Paper Product Spec Guide (PDF).