When your frame is finished, you are ready to make the pulp. The choice of paper is important and the best way to find what works best is to experiment with different papers and different combinations. The more fibrous the paper, the easier it will be to work with and the stronger it will be when you are finished. In general, paper that is hard to tear will be stronger than flimsier paper. We had good success with old manila envelopes, newspaper and advertisements made out of colored cardstock. To achieve color sheets, simply use colored paper; you can use printed color sheets, but they do not provide nearly as much color as actual colored paper. Separate your selection into piles and tear the paper into small pieces as shown on the right. Soak the torn paper pieces for as long as possible to make it easier on your blender; an hour is fine but overnight is even better.

Next fill your blender about halfway with warm water and add a few pieces of your soggy paper until you have achieved the consistency of lumpy applesauce. If voids of air become created in the mixture, it's an indication that you need to add more water.